In an unprecedented move widely condemned as political interference, the Trump administration has frozen $2.3 billion in federal funding to Harvard University over its refusal to suppress pro-Palestinian activism on campus. The decision, reportedly driven by demands to combat “antisemitism,” has sparked outrage among academics and human rights advocates who see it as a targeted attack on freedom of expression.

Citing sources from Israel’s Walla news outlet, the administration had pressed Harvard to impose tighter control over student-led actions, discipline those involved in pro-Palestinian demonstrations, and accept the establishment of a government-appointed committee to monitor academic content. Harvard rejected all demands.

University President Alan Garber defended the institution’s stance, declaring that Harvard “will not compromise its academic independence or constitutional rights.” His refusal marks a rare pushback against federal pressure at a time when universities across the United States are being forced to choose between funding and free speech.

This is not the first time Harvard has been in the crosshairs. Former President Claudine Gay resigned in December 2023 after a congressional hearing scrutinised the university’s handling of pro-Palestinian activism. And now, with a full review underway of over $8.7 billion in federal contracts and grants, the battle over campus speech has entered a new and dangerous phase.

The funding freeze comes amid a wider crackdown on pro-Palestinian voices in American academia. As student demonstrations continue to draw attention to the suffering in Gaza and the rights of Palestinians, many now see the administration’s move as a clear message: criticism of Israeli policy will be punished, even at the cost of academic freedom.