Harvard University has asked a federal judge to unfreeze $2.5 billion in federal research funding blocked by the Trump administration, arguing the freeze violates free speech and threatens critical research in areas like national security, cancer, pediatric HIV, and infectious diseases.

Axar.az reports, citing Reuters, that the funding halt began after Harvard refused to comply with a list of White House demands.

Since April 14, the university has received nearly 1,000 requests to suspend grants. In its lawsuit, Harvard calls the freeze arbitrary, illegal, and politically motivated.

US President Trump has accused elite U.S. universities, including Harvard, of promoting “woke” ideology and antisemitism. His administration has launched multiple investigations into Harvard over alleged discrimination, foreign ties, and antisemitism-related incidents following pro-Palestinian protests.

A court hearing is scheduled for July 21, where Harvard is seeking a summary judgment to end the funding block without a full trial. The university warns that the freeze could destroy ongoing scientific research and undermine academic freedom.