US Education Secretary Linda McMahon praised Columbia University for agreeing to implement policy changes demanded by the Trump administration, saying they are on the right track to recover federal funding. Interim president Katrina Armstrong announced reforms, including oversight of the Middle East studies department and new rules for protests and student discipline. The university also agreed to adopt a new definition of antisemitism and increase staffing at the Institute for Israel and Jewish Studies.
The Trump administration had pulled $400 million in funding over how Columbia handled protests against Israel, demanding nine policy changes. Some faculty and free speech groups criticized the university for giving in to Trump’s interference in academic freedom. McMahon stated that negotiations to unfreeze the money are progressing positively.
The crackdown on Columbia has raised concerns about academic freedom, with fears of similar actions at other colleges. The arrest of activist Mahmoud Khalil, who helped lead pro-Palestinian protests, has added to the tension on campus. Khalil is challenging his detention and possible deportation in court.
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