WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump struck back at Harvard University on Thursday, labeling it a "threat" to democracy.

According to Anadolu Agency, Trump's comments emerged following Harvard's lawsuit against his administration. The legal action was initiated after the federal government revoked more than $2 billion in funding for the prestigious institution. Harvard President Alan Garber firmly asserted that the university will not compromise on its rights in response to the funding cancellation.

Trump expressed his disdain on Truth Social, accusing Harvard of being an "Anti-Semitic, Far Left Institution" and criticizing its acceptance of students from around the world whom he claims want to dismantle the country. He described the institution as a "Liberal mess" and condemned the presence of individuals he characterized as "crazed lunatics" within its classrooms, who allegedly spread anger and hate.

The White House stated earlier this week that it intends to tackle Harvard's lawsuit regarding the funding freeze in court. Harvard's legal challenge marks a significant act of defiance against the administration's policies. Trump officials maintained that their measures are intended to combat antisemitism, citing campus protests about Israel's military actions in Gaza as a catalyst.

The administration has also targeted diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, labeling them as "illegal and immoral discrimination." In defense of the funding freeze, the Trump administration insisted that universities must adhere to civil rights laws and prevent the harassment of Jewish students, although it did not provide specific instances of such harassment.