In January 2025, former President Donald Trump signed an executive order allowing the deportation of international students who join protests “perceived as anti-Israel.” The order cites immigration laws banning support for terrorist organizations, specifically naming Hamas, which “the U.S. officially labeled a terrorist group in 1997.”

The directive has drawn strong backlash for its potential impact on free speech. Critics say it “dangerously conflates political expression with material support for terrorism,” warning that it could criminalize peaceful dissent or criticism of U.S. or Israeli policies. Civil liberties groups argue that its vague language invites “unconstitutional overreach.”

Opponents also fear it could be used against students participating in lawful, nonviolent protests. Many warn it threatens First Amendment rights, especially within universities that value open debate and activism.

Supporters, however, claim the policy is needed to fight “rising anti-Semitism on college campuses.” Alumni groups, including one from Columbia University, have started identifying students involved in pro-Palestinian demonstrations to assist enforcement.

The order has reignited a national debate over balancing national security and free speech. As legal challenges loom, critics warn of a “chilling effect” on international students who may now fear deportation for speaking out.