by Alice Ibarra in Politics

A federal judge in Boston issued a temporary restraining order, preventing the Trump administration from barring Harvard University from hosting international students. This follows the administration's abrupt withdrawal of Harvard's certification to host foreign students, a move that would have affected approximately 7,000 students. Harvard alleges this action was retaliation for refusing White House demands to change university policies. The judge's order allows Harvard to continue hosting international students while the case proceeds, though the government retains some authority for review. The Trump administration previously issued a proclamation to block foreign students from entering the U.S. to attend Harvard, which was also temporarily blocked by the court. The legal battle has created uncertainty for current and prospective students, with some expressing concerns and seeking transfers. The conflict stems from a larger dispute between the Trump administration and Harvard over various policy issues, including accusations of antisemitism and excessive liberalism. The Trump administration has taken other actions against Harvard, including cutting research grants and threatening to revoke its tax-exempt status. Despite these actions, President Trump recently suggested a potential deal with Harvard may be announced soon.