Princeton University has become the latest Ivy League institution to face federal funding cuts under the Trump administration’s crackdown on alleged antisemitism on college campuses. The U.S. government has frozen dozens of research grants to the university, joining other elite schools like Harvard and Columbia in a growing political battle over free speech, academic freedom, and Middle East activism.
Federal Agencies Freeze Funding Without Explanation
Princeton President Chris Eisgruber confirmed that multiple government agencies—including NASA, the Department of Defense, and the Department of Energy—abruptly halted grants without providing a reason. The university has not disclosed the exact financial impact but insists it remains committed to fighting antisemitism while defending academic freedom.
A Department of Energy spokesperson later clarified that the freeze is linked to an ongoing Education Department investigation into antisemitic harassment at Princeton. Last month, the Biden administration warned 60 universities about potential enforcement actions if they failed to address discrimination against Jewish students.
Trump’s Broader Crackdown on Universities
This move is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to pressure universities over their handling of pro-Palestinian protests, which some officials claim have fostered antisemitism. The administration recently revoked $400 million in funding from Columbia University—a hotspot for campus demonstrations—and is reviewing $9 billion in federal grants to Harvard.
Critics argue that the administration is conflating criticism of Israel’s military actions in Gaza with antisemitism. Protesters, including some Jewish groups, say peaceful advocacy for Palestinian rights is being unfairly suppressed.
Escalating Tensions in the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
The latest wave of campus protests follows the October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel, which killed 1,200 people and triggered a devastating Israeli military response. Gaza health officials report over 50,000 Palestinian deaths, along with widespread displacement and famine conditions. The conflict has fueled global debates, with universities caught in the crossfire.
Beyond antisemitism, the Trump administration has also targeted schools over diversity programs and transgender policies. The University of Pennsylvania lost $175 million in funding over its stance on transgender athletes, signaling a wider culture war in education.
What’s Next for Princeton and Other Universities?
As Princeton fights to restore its grants, the case raises urgent questions: Are these funding cuts justified, or do they threaten academic freedom? And will more universities face similar consequences?
