U.S. President Donald Trump announced a visa ban for international students heading to Harvard University on Wednesday. This move intensifies his ongoing criticism of the Ivy League institution.

In his statement, Trump said, “I have determined that it is necessary to restrict the entry of foreign nationals who seek to enter the United States solely or principally to participate in a course of study at Harvard University or in an exchange visitor programme hosted by Harvard University.”

Ban Takes Immediate Effect

Trump's order became effective right away. He stated that students using the Student and Exchange Visitor Programme (SEVP) to attend Harvard will not be allowed to enter the U.S. Moreover, the order added that current international students at Harvard may also have their visas reviewed or revoked.

Harvard Faces Long-Running Dispute

Trump has regularly attacked Harvard. He accused the university of resisting efforts by his administration to influence its admissions, research, and teaching. In fact, Harvard has strongly pushed back against several of his policies in the past.

Trump Cites Security Risk

According to Trump, this decision protects national interests. He claimed Harvard did not cooperate in sharing details about possible misconduct involving foreign students.

Judge Blocked Earlier Attempt

Just last week, a judge blocked Trump’s earlier move to stop Harvard from enrolling international students. Despite that, Trump responded with this new order to enforce tougher restrictions.