Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, Jul 24: In another sharp escalation of its ongoing confrontation with Harvard University, the US State Department has launched an investigation into the institution’s continued eligibility to sponsor the Exchange Visitor Program, which allows foreign students and scholars to engage in academic and cultural exchanges in the United States.
The probe, confirmed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Wednesday, signals renewed efforts by the Trump administration to curb the presence of international students at the prestigious university. “Sponsors must operate their programs in full alignment with US regulations and interests, particularly where national security and foreign policy are concerned,” Rubio said in a statement.
He added, “This investigation ensures that no program undermines the United States’ foreign policy goals or compromises its security.”
The move comes amid heightened scrutiny of Harvard’s international ties, particularly with China. Federal officials have suggested that these connections, along with campus protests and outspoken criticism of US-Israel military relations, may pose national security risks or breach the terms of the Exchange Visitor Program.
The administration, which has increasingly tied foreign student policy to broader political and diplomatic goals, has also interpreted criticisms of US foreign aid to Israel as potential violations of the program's acceptable conduct.
Just two weeks ago, the administration threatened Harvard’s accreditation status and issued subpoenas demanding extensive records. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) requested information on international students' post-graduation employment under the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program and even asked for videos of campus protests involving international students dating back to 2020.
In response, a Harvard University spokesperson denounced the investigation as “yet another retaliatory step taken by the Administration in violation of Harvard’s First Amendment rights,” while asserting that the university remains fully compliant with Exchange Visitor Program regulations.
The latest developments come on the heels of a federal hearing earlier this week regarding the Trump administration’s attempt to cut over $2.6 billion in federal funding to Harvard. Judge Allison Burroughs of the US District Court in Massachusetts presided over the case.
Reacting to the hearing, President Trump posted on social media, calling Judge Burroughs “a total disaster,” and vowed to appeal immediately if the ruling goes against the administration.
As tensions continue to mount, Harvard's leadership finds itself caught in the crosshairs of a broader political battle over immigration, academic freedom, and the role of international engagement in US higher education.