Former President Donald Trump signed an executive order in January 2025 aimed at combating anti-Semitism, which includes provisions for deporting international students participating in pro-Palestinian protests.

The order targets non-citizen students involved in demonstrations perceived as anti-Israel, potentially revoking their visas based on U.S. immigration laws related to endorsing terrorist organizations like Hamas.

Critics argue the order could suppress free speech, warning that using immigration laws to target political expression may be unconstitutional. Some university alumni groups have even taken steps to identify students involved in such protests to facilitate their deportation.

This move has sparked a debate over balancing the fight against anti-Semitism with preserving free speech on college campuses. Universities and civil rights groups are closely watching its effects on student activism and international student communities.