Amid a surge in antisemitism following the October 7th Hamas attack on Israel, former President Trump signed an executive order aimed at curbing anti-Jewish sentiment on college campuses. The order directs law enforcement to take decisive action against antisemitism, including the removal of pro-Hamas activists holding student visas.
The executive order emphasizes the United States' commitment to combating antisemitism through all legal means, holding perpetrators of anti-Semitic harassment and violence accountable. Federal agencies are tasked with identifying civil and criminal authorities to address antisemitism and deport activists who have violated U.S. law.
This executive order builds upon a previous directive from the Trump administration, which was subsequently rescinded by the Biden administration. It cites an "unprecedented wave" of anti-Semitic discrimination, vandalism, and violence targeting Jewish students, including denial of access to campus facilities, intimidation, harassment, and physical threats.
Brandy Shufutinsky, director of education and community engagement at the Jewish Institute for Liberal Values, acknowledges the importance of free speech while emphasizing that it doesn't justify discriminatory or violent behavior. She advocates for revoking the visas of individuals who engage in such conduct.
Sarah Stern, founder and president of the Endowment for Middle East Truth (EMET), questions why the U.S. would permit foreign students who support terrorist organizations on its campuses. She views the executive order as a step toward restoring order and decency to universities.
Rabbi Steven Burg, CEO of the Jewish educational non-profit Aish, expresses concern about the rise of antisemitism and pro-Hamas sentiment at U.S. colleges and universities. He highlights the fear and harm experienced by Jewish students due to violence, intimidation, threats, and aggressive protests.
Burg argues that foreign students who engage in hateful acts should lose their right to study in the U.S. He believes the potential deportation of pro-Hamas protesters sends a strong message against hatred and violence.
A House Republican report urged the federal government to strengthen its efforts to combat antisemitism, including tying federal aid to colleges with stricter policies against anti-Jewish bias. The report followed anti-Israel encampments at Columbia University and other institutions, where numerous antisemitic incidents were reported after October 7th.
Republicans have criticized the Biden administration's State Department and Department of Homeland Security for allegedly obstructing requests for information on the number of visa holders involved in these anti-Israel demonstrations.
