Former U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order in January 2025 allowing the deportation of international students involved in protests deemed anti-Israel. The order directs federal agencies to revoke visas of non-citizens who “endorse or espouse” terrorist organizations, citing Hamas as an example,
Critics argue the policy suppresses free speech and conflates political activism with terrorism. Civil rights groups warn of government overreach and First Amendment violations. Some alumni groups, like those at Columbia University, are reportedly aiding enforcement efforts. The move has sparked a national debate over balancing anti-Semitism prevention with protecting free speech.