Trump Targets Harvard: $1 Billion Demand in Policy Clash

President Donald Trump is seeking $1 billion from Harvard University over various policy issues, including pro-Palestinian protests and diversity policies. Amid talks of a settlement, the administration has dropped its initial demand for payment. Trump criticizes media reports, while Harvard remains silent on the matter.

In a bold move, U.S. President Donald Trump has announced his administration's intent to seek $1 billion in damages from Harvard University amid ongoing investigations into the institution's policies. The clash involves contentious issues such as pro-Palestinian protests, campus diversity, and policies concerning transgender rights.

The administration had initially demanded a monetary settlement from the Ivy League school, a claim President Trump has since withdrawn, according to reports from the New York Times. However, Trump publicly refuted this reporting through social media posts, labeling them inaccurate and maintaining his position against the renowned university.

While Harvard has stayed silent, multiple other Ivy League institutions have reached agreements with the government, with Columbia University and Brown University agreeing to make significant payments as part of their settlements. The tension highlights ongoing debates around academic freedom and free speech, as well as the equating of criticism of Israeli actions with anti-Semitism.

(With inputs from agencies.)