Boston: The US Department of Homeland Security announced its decision to issue administrative subpoenas to Harvard University, demanding records related to foreign students. This move comes after Harvard allegedly "repeatedly refused" to comply with previous requests for information.

According to Anadolu Agency, the subpoenas specifically target Harvard's Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification, focusing on records pertaining to foreign students since January 1, 2020. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem expressed frustration on X, stating that the department had initially attempted to resolve the matter amicably with Harvard, but the university's lack of cooperation necessitated a more forceful approach. Administrative subpoenas are legal mandates that compel organizations to provide documents or testimony without needing court approval.

The Department of Homeland Security cited "allegations of disciplinary disparity involving nonimmigrant students" as the basis for its demand for records and communications. This latest action follows Secretary Noem's April 16 call for information concerning the "criminality and misconduct" of foreign students at Harvard. By May 22, Noem had ordered the termination of Harvard's certification for the Student and Exchange Visitor Program.

This development represents a further escalation in ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and Harvard, centering around accusations of antisemitism and national security issues. Previously, the administration had revoked Harvard's certification to enroll foreign students, frozen federal research grants, and determined through the Justice Department that the university had violated federal civil rights laws by failing to address harassment against Jewish and Israeli students during protests related to the Gaza Strip conflict. Harvard has denied these allegations, asserting that it has made "significant strides to combat bigotry, hate, and bias" and is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where Jewish and Israeli community members can thrive.

The Department of Homeland Security has also issued a warning to other educational institutions to "take note of Harvard's actions, and the repercussions" when deciding whether to comply with similar requests from the federal government.

Harvard, in a statement to Anadolu, expressed its commitment to upholding the law while criticizing what it called 'unwarranted' government subpoenas. The university pledged to cooperate with lawful requests but vowed to defend its students and staff against 'harmful government overreach' that attempts to influence its admissions, hiring, and teaching practices. Harvard reiterated its resolve to protect its community and principles against what it described as unfounded federal retribution.