In an effort to counter anti-Semitism, former President Donald Trump signed an executive order that marks a sharp shift in immigration and campus policy, specifically targeting foreign students and individuals involved in pro-Palestinian protests. The order opens the door for deporting foreign nationals who participate in demonstrations viewed as supporting Hamas or other extremist groups.
Following the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, the Trump administration intensified efforts to prosecute acts it identifies as tied to terrorism, vandalism, arson, and violence against Jewish communities in the U.S. Trump has declared that, beginning in 2025, foreign residents involved in pro-jihadist demonstrations would be deported, and student visas of those expressing pro-Hamas sentiments would be promptly revoked.
Critics, including human rights organizations, argue that the policy infringes on free speech and unfairly targets Palestinians. They maintain that many of the protests have been against Israeli military actions, not in support of Hamas, though some have involved threats and vandalism.
Trump’s hardline stance aligns with earlier policies from his presidency, including travel bans affecting several Muslim-majority nations and a strict approach to immigration. This executive order is part of his broader campaign to eliminate what he labels as radical influence on college campuses, especially among international students associated with pro-Hamas messaging. The order not only outlines deportation for foreign nationals who violate U.S. laws but also calls for a framework of recommendations to address anti-Semitism nationwide.
