The US government has warned 60 universities that they could lose federal funding over allegations of failing to protect Jewish students from harassment.
Prestigious institutions such as Columbia, Harvard, Yale, and Berkeley are among those under scrutiny, as tensions rise on campuses over pro-Palestinian protests.
Officials sent letters to universities, warning of “potential enforcement actions” if they do not ensure Jewish students’ safety and uninterrupted education. The Office for Civil Rights stated that colleges benefit from public funding and must strictly follow anti-discrimination laws to continue receiving support.
The crackdown escalated after President Donald Trump’s administration announced a $400 million cut in federal grants to Columbia University, accusing it of inaction against anti-Semitism. Columbia has been a hotspot for pro-Palestinian demonstrations, with protesters condemning Israel’s military actions in Gaza. Over the weekend, federal agents arrested Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian graduate student and activist at Columbia, alleging links to Hamas.
Critics argue that these actions are part of a broader effort to suppress dissent and weaken universities. Journalist Peter Beinart stated that the administration is using anti-Semitism claims to undermine institutions that resist its political agenda. He warned that this approach could backfire, increasing resentment toward Jewish communities rather than protecting them.
Ilan Goldenberg, a former Jewish outreach director for a political campaign, acknowledged that anti-Semitism exists on some campuses but said defunding universities is not the solution. He pointed out that cutting resources would harm Jewish students as well, potentially worsening tensions.
At Columbia, faculty members have also raised concerns. Professor Sheldon Pollock criticized the administration’s response, arguing that the university has taken significant steps to address discrimination but continues to face political pressure. He described the funding threats as an attack on academic freedom, claiming that legitimate criticism of Israel’s actions is being misrepresented as anti-Semitism.
Many Jewish academics and activists worry that the government’s approach, which includes surveillance and student arrests, could fuel greater hostility rather than promoting real solutions. The debate continues as universities grapple with balancing free speech, student safety, and political pressures.