State Department scrutinizing all Harvard visa holders
Fox News has reported that all visa holders associated with Harvard University are currently under scrutiny by senior State Department officials. This includes not only student visa holders but also those with B-1 business visas, B-2 tourist visas, and others. The purpose of this investigation is to identify any potential security vulnerabilities or abuses of the visa system. This probe could potentially impact hundreds of individuals associated with the prestigious university.
Furthermore, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has taken drastic measures by eliminating the student visa program at Harvard University due to what they claim is “pro-terrorist conduct” at campus protests. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem stated that Harvard is being held accountable for fostering violence, antisemitism, and allegedly coordinating with the Chinese Communist Party on its campus. As a result, Harvard may no longer enroll foreign students in the upcoming academic year, and existing foreign students must transfer or risk losing their legal status in the U.S.
In response to Harvard’s refusal to comply with requests for behavioral records of student visa holders, the Trump administration has frozen nearly $3 billion in federal funding to the university and launched investigations into various departments. Additionally, at least a dozen Harvard students have had their authorization to study in the U.S. revoked due to their involvement in campus protest activities. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has indicated that “thousands” of student visas have already been revoked and that more could follow.
The crackdown on university policies comes in the wake of pro-Gaza student protests and calls for divestment from Israel. The administration is taking a firm stance on maintaining safety and security within higher education facilities and ensuring that visa holders are not disrupting campus activities. This move serves as a warning to universities nationwide to comply with regulations and uphold the law.
In conclusion, the actions taken by the State Department and DHS reflect a broader effort to maintain national security and address potential threats within academic institutions. The scrutiny of visa holders associated with Harvard University underscores the importance of compliance with regulations and the consequences of non-compliance. This development has significant implications for foreign students and academic institutions across the country.
