Trump Administration Withdraws $400 Million from Columbia University Over Antisemitism Concerns

Politics ASIA, CENSORSHIP, COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY, EXAMINATION RESULTS, FUNDING, GAZA, GAZA STRIP, GENOCIDE, ISRAEL, NEW, NEW YORK UNIVERSITY, STUDENT PROTESTS, TRUMP, US DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Omar El-Sharif March 7, 2025

Trump Administration Withdraws $400 Million from Columbia University Over Antisemitism Concerns

The Trump administration has halted $400 million in federal funding to Columbia University, citing its failure to protect Jewish students from antisemitism. This action follows the university’s involvement in pro-Palestinian protests amid ongoing tensions related to the Gaza conflict and perceived inaction against harassment on campus.

The Trump administration has announced the immediate withdrawal of $400 million in federal funding from Columbia University. This decision is attributed to the institution’s perceived failure to address antisemitism and protect Jewish students on campus. According to the U.S. Department of Education, the funding cut stems from the university’s “continued inaction in the face of persistent harassment of Jewish students.”

Columbia University has recently been a central site for pro-Palestinian protests, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. These protests have drawn significant attention and criticism, leading to a heightened scrutiny of the university’s response to antisemitic incidents. Earlier in the week, former President Trump had indicated a willingness to withdraw funding from educational institutions that permit what he termed “illegal protests.”

In summary, the Trump administration’s decision to withdraw $400 million from Columbia University underscores the tensions surrounding campus protests and issues of antisemitism. The federal government emphasizes that universities must take a stand against harassment to receive funding. Columbia’s central role in recent pro-Palestinian protests has intensified this scrutiny, reflecting the broader national discourse on free speech and safety in educational environments.

Original Source: www.bbc.com