Federal Judge Blocks Trump Administration’s Ban on Harvard’s International Student Enrollment – RT
A federal judge has issued a temporary restraining order halting the Trump administration’s decision to revoke Harvard University’s ability to enroll international students, marking a significant setback for the administration’s escalating campaign against the Ivy League institution.
The ruling, issued by U.S. District Judge Allison Burroughs in Massachusetts, comes in response to a lawsuit filed by Harvard on Friday, which described the revocation as a “blatant violation” of the U.S. Constitution and federal law.On Thursday, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), led by Secretary Kristi Noem, announced the termination of Harvard’s Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) certification, effectively barring the university from enrolling foreign students for the 2025-2026 academic year.
The move would have forced nearly 6,800 international students—comprising over 25% of Harvard’s student body—to transfer to other institutions or risk losing their legal status in the U.S.Harvard’s lawsuit argues that the DHS action was retaliatory, stemming from the university’s refusal to comply with the administration’s demands to overhaul its curriculum, admissions policies, and response to pro-Palestinian protests. The university contends that the revocation inflicts “immediate and irreparable harm” on its operations and the thousands of visa-holding students who contribute significantly to its academic mission.
Judge Burroughs, an appointee of former President Barack Obama, issued the temporary order on Friday, citing potential harm to Harvard and its students if the policy were enforced before a full hearing. She scheduled further hearings for May 27th and 29th to determine the next steps. The Trump administration may appeal the ruling, though spokespeople for the Justice Department and DHS have not yet commented.
The decision follows months of tension between Harvard and the Trump administration, which has already frozen over $2 billion in federal funding to the university and threatened its tax-exempt status. DHS claims Harvard fosters an “unsafe campus environment” by allowing “anti-American, pro-terrorist agitators” and accuses the university of ties to the Chinese Communist Party. Harvard has firmly rejected these allegations, emphasizing its commitment to academic freedom and combating antisemitism while maintaining its independence.
“This is an unlawful attempt to punish Harvard for refusing to surrender its academic independence,” said Harvard President Alan Garber in a statement to the university community. “Our international students are integral to our mission, and we will fight to protect their place at Harvard.”
The ruling has sparked widespread discussion, with posts on X reflecting polarized sentiments. Some users hailed the decision as a victory for judicial oversight, while others criticized Harvard for allegedly protecting disruptive protesters. The outcome of this legal battle could have far-reaching implications for international students and the broader landscape of U.S. higher education.