President Trump has threatened to cut an additional $1 billion in federal health research funding to Harvard University, following an earlier freeze of $2.3 billion.

Axar.az, citing JP, reports that the move is part of a broader crackdown on elite universities like Harvard and Columbia, which the administration accuses of failing to curb antisemitism tied to pro-Palestinian protests.

The administration issued a series of demands to Harvard—including banning masks, dismantling diversity programs, derecognizing certain student groups, and increasing cooperation with law enforcement. Harvard rejected the demands, stating they would compromise the university's independence. This led to further escalation, including threats to revoke Harvard’s tax-exempt status.

The conflict intensified after Harvard made the administration’s demands public, which officials claimed were intended as a private negotiation starting point. Trump’s administration, initially considering a softer approach with Harvard, is now increasing pressure in light of the public standoff.