In a recent move to combat anti-Semitism, former U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order that authorizes the deportation of international students involved in pro-Palestinian protests. The order, signed in January 2025, directs federal agencies to revoke the visas of non-citizens participating in such demonstrations, citing immigration laws that allow the deportation of those who “endorse or espouse” terrorist organizations, such as Hamas, which has been designated as such by the U.S. since 1997.

Critics argue this conflates political expression with terrorism support, potentially violating free speech rights. Civil rights groups warn that using immigration enforcement to suppress protected speech could be unconstitutional and lead to overreach by law enforcement. This development has sparked a debate over the balance between fighting anti-Semitism and preserving free speech.