Donald Trump signed a controversial executive order on his first day in office, targeting pro-Palestinian activists in a bid to combat antisemitism. The order instructs federal agencies to identify civil and criminal authorities to address antisemitic activities and specifically targets resident aliens, including students on visas, involved in protests. It calls for department and agency leaders to submit recommendations to the White House within 60 days.
The order appears to target individuals who participated in pro-Palestinian demonstrations following the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. It instructs the Department of Justice to investigate pro-Hamas graffiti and intimidation incidents, including those on college campuses. Furthermore, it asks agencies to explore deportation avenues for pro-Palestinian activists, including student protesters.
"Combat antisemitism," specifically by deporting resident aliens – such as students with visas – who were found to have broken the law during protests – Donald Trump
Republicans have been voicing their intent to punish colleges that permit such protests for months. Top party members have warned of pulling billions of dollars in federal funding from prestigious universities allowing pro-Palestinian protests. The institutions could also face the loss of official accreditation due to their stance.
The executive order is part of Trump's broader strategy to tighten immigration controls and expel those perceived as national security threats. The response comes in the wake of renewed conflict in Gaza and aims at identifying and deporting resident aliens involved in anti-Israel protests.
"The US must ensure that admitted aliens and aliens otherwise already present in the US do not bear hostile attitudes toward its citizens, culture, government, institutions, or founding principles" – Donald Trump
The order's implications extend beyond activism, reflecting a significant policy shift towards managing perceived domestic threats linked to international conflicts. It underscores a strong stance against antisemitism while raising concerns about freedom of expression and the impact on academic institutions.