International Students at Harvard Call for Protection Amid Government Retaliation
Cambridge, MA — Tensions are running high among international students at Harvard University following the Trump administration’s recent decision to bar their enrollment. Students from Colombia, Israel, and Bangladesh have expressed fear and uncertainty over their status as the government alleges the university promotes pro-Hamas sympathies.
PhD student Andrea Parra voiced concerns about the lack of transparency from Harvard regarding protections for international students, stating that many feel "scared" and "upended." A federal judge has temporarily blocked the government’s action against Harvard, which affects around 7,000 visa holders. In their lawsuit, Harvard argues that the move threatens $2.2 billion in federal research grants and constitutes an attack on a significant portion of its student body, including over 1,000 students from China alone.
Sudipta Saha, another PhD student, described the fear engulfing international students trying to return to the U.S., some of whom faced secondary screenings at airports. He urged the university to provide urgent legal and logistical support.
As the situation develops, international students are calling for Harvard to enhance its protective measures and improve communication about their rights, setting the stage for continued advocacy and dialogue.
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