Trump's controversial move; $1.7 billion cut in funding for Cornell and Northwestern universities

Afghan Voice Agency (AVA) - International Service: According to the New York Times, the Trump administration has temporarily stopped paying $1 billion to Cornell University and $790 million to Northwestern University.

 

This decision is part of an escalating campaign by the Trump administration to pressure America's top universities; universities that are heavily criticized for their liberal approaches, support for academic freedoms, and criticism of government policies.

 

The Trump administration has warned the officials of these two universities that they must provide more support for Jewish students. This is despite the fact that in April of last year, following the crimes of the Zionist regime against the people of Gaza, students at Northwestern University, like other American universities, held demonstrations in support of the Palestinians.

 

Government officials, who asked not to be named, have stated to the New York Times that “the suspension of these funds is simply the beginning of a new path for the government in redefining the role of universities in American society.” Some analysts believe that this action is not only a clear political message to elite educational institutions, but also an attempt to rebuild the government’s influence over the country’s education system.

 

Experts and analysts warn that Trump’s action could lead to legal complaints from universities, strong reactions from academic circles and civil society organizations, and the beginning of a new conflict between the government and universities in the United States.

 

The Trump administration has not yet provided an official response to questions about the exact reasons for these suspensions, but informed sources have reported that the funds of other universities may also be at risk. During Trump's first term, he repeatedly attacked prestigious universities such as Harvard, Yale, and Stanford, accusing them of being too liberal and opposing his immigration policies.

 

Trump has also accused these universities of supporting minorities, international students, and social justice projects, and has publicly criticized government policies.