Washington: The Trump administration announced on Friday the immediate cancellation of approximately $400 million in federal grants to Columbia University. The move comes after accusations that the institution failed to protect Jewish students from anti-Semitic harassment following anti-Israel protests.
Four government agencies, including the US General Services Administration, confirmed the decision, calling it the “first round of action,” with further cuts anticipated.
Trump’s Stand Against ‘Illegal Protests’
Earlier this week, former President Donald Trump vowed to cut funding for schools that allowed what he called “illegal protests.” The statement was seen as a broader crackdown on universities accused of permitting anti-Israel demonstrations that allegedly incited anti-Semitic behavior.
Columbia University, among several US campuses that witnessed large-scale student protests against Israel’s war in Gaza following the October 7, 2023 attacks, has been under scrutiny for its handling of these demonstrations.
Government’s Justification for the Cuts
Education Secretary Linda McMahon defended the funding cut, stating:
“Since October 7, Jewish students have faced relentless violence, intimidation, and anti-Semitic harassment on their campuses—only to be ignored by those who are supposed to protect them.”
She emphasized that universities must comply with federal anti-discrimination laws to continue receiving funding and accused Columbia of failing to uphold that responsibility.
Future of Columbia’s Federal Support
The Trump administration has warned that additional funding revocations may follow unless universities take stronger action to prevent anti-Semitic incidents on their campuses.
Columbia University has not yet responded to the decision. However, the move raises concerns over the future of federal funding for other educational institutions facing similar allegations.
