Daijiworld Media Network- Washington

Washington, May 23: In a startling move, the Trump administration on Thursday barred Harvard University from enrolling international students, citing an ongoing investigation by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

The decision, which has sparked widespread debate in academic and political circles, was confirmed in a letter sent directly to the university by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. The letter warned Harvard of its temporary suspension from the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) and demanded submission of critical information within 72 hours if the university wishes to restore its certification before the next academic session.

In a strongly worded post on X (formerly Twitter), Secretary Noem stated, “This administration is holding Harvard accountable for fostering violence, antisemitism, and coordinating with the Chinese Communist Party on its campus.” She further added, “It’s a privilege, not a right, to enrol foreign students in American institutions.”

Noem also criticized Harvard’s reliance on international students, claiming that the high tuition fees paid by them “help pad their multibillion-dollar endowments,” accusing the Ivy League university of financial opportunism.

This development comes amid increased scrutiny of elite American universities by the Trump administration, which has repeatedly alleged ideological bias, foreign influence, and lax campus discipline in recent months.

Harvard University has yet to issue an official response to the allegations or the suspension order. However, legal experts believe the prestigious institution is likely to challenge the move, which could have significant implications for thousands of international students planning to study in the U.S.