International

Trump Clarifies US Not Behind Iran Attack, Warns of Full Military Response if Provoked

June 15, 2025 by NOK Desk

US President Donald Trump on Sunday clarified that Washington has no role in the attack on Iran, and warned that the US Armed Forces will unleash its full military strength if attacked.

Trump’s statement comes amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, with both countries exchanging a series of attacks.

“The US had nothing to do with the attack on Iran tonight. If we are attacked in any way, shape or form by Iran, the full strength and might of the US Armed Forces will come down on you at levels never seen before. However, we can easily get a deal done between Iran and Israel, and end this bloody conflict!!!” Trump wrote on his ‘Truth Social.’

Israel launched a massive airstrike on Iranian military and nuclear sites, dubbed “Operation Rising Lion,” in response to which Iran fired ballistic missiles at Israeli cities.

The conflict has resulted in significant casualties on both sides, with reports indicating at least 78 fatalities and over 320 injuries in Iran, and three deaths and over 170 wounded in Israel.

The Israel Defence Forces said today that they completed an extensive series of strikes on targets in Tehran related to the Iranian regime’s nuclear weapons project.

The IDF said that in the targeted operations, they struck headquarters and sites which could have enabled Iran to obtain nuclear weapons.

In a post on X, IDF said, “The IDF completed an extensive series of strikes on targets in Tehran related to the Iranian regime’s nuclear weapons project. The targets included the Iranian Ministry of Defence headquarters, the headquarters of the SPND nuclear project, and additional targets, which advanced the Iranian regime’s efforts to obtain a nuclear weapon and where the Iranian regime hid its nuclear archive.”

“Iran isn’t just threatening Israel. Its missiles can now reach deep into Europe. The @IDF struck the regime’s nuclear facilities at the 11th hour,” Israel Foreign Ministry wrote on X.

“Israel is doing what must be done,” the post added. (ANI)

International

Iran Launches ‘Operation True Promise 3’: Massive Missile Barrage Hits Israel After Strikes on Nuclear Sites

June 14, 2025 by NOK Desk

On June 13, 2025, Iran launched a significant missile attack on Israel, codenamed Operation True Promise 3, in retaliation for Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear facilities and military leadership earlier that day. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility, firing hundreds of ballistic missiles, including advanced hypersonic models like the Fattah, at Israeli military bases and urban centers such as Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.

Israeli defenses, supported by U.S. and Jordanian forces, intercepted most missiles, but some struck targets, causing damage in Tel Aviv, Hod HaSharon, and Gedera. Reports indicate 21–40 injuries in Israel, with two in critical condition, and significant destruction to buildings and infrastructure. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed “severe punishment,” while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu promised retaliation, escalating fears of a broader regional conflict.

The attack followed Israel’s “Rising Lion” operation, which killed senior IRGC commanders and damaged Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility. Estimates of missile numbers vary, with sources reporting 100–300 launched in multiple waves. Global leaders, including the UN and EU, urged de-escalation, while U.S. President Donald Trump called for nuclear talks with Iran.

International

Israel Launches Major Airstrikes on Iran’s Nuclear Sites in ‘Operation Rising Lion’

June 13, 2025 by NOK Desk

Israel has carried out a series of airstrikes targeting Iran’s nuclear programme, leading to an escalation of tensions in the West Asia or Middle East. The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed the operation, dubbed Operation Rising Lion, as reported by BBC stating that dozens of Israeli Air Force jets struck “nuclear and military targets” across multiple locations in Iran.

Loud explosions were reported in Tehran early Friday morning, while air raid sirens and emergency phone alerts were triggered in Jerusalem, as Israel declared a nationwide state of emergency. The Israeli government has warned of the potential for imminent retaliation by Iran.

IRNA news agency of Iran reports “Sounds of explosions have been heard in and near the Iranian capital, Tehran, amid reports in Israeli media that the Israeli regime is carrying out strikes against Iranian targets. The sounds were heard early on Friday. Unverified images and footage began to appear on social media of Tehran’s skyline in which plumes of smoke could be seen.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a national address, described the strikes as a “targeted military operation to roll back the Iranian threat to Israel’s very survival.” He said Iran had taken steps toward weaponising enriched uranium, posing what he called a “clear and present danger.” “In recent months, Iran has taken steps it has never taken before,” Netanyahu said. “If not stopped, Iran could produce a nuclear weapon in a very short time,” reports BBC.

According to the IDF, the first phase of the strikes involved a coordinated offensive on what it called “dozens of military targets, including nuclear facilities,” asserting that weapons of mass destruction in Iran’s hands would be an existential threat not only to Israel, but to global security. An IDF spokesperson said the strikes were a “pre-emptive, precise, combined offensive” in response to Iran’s “ongoing aggression against Israel.”

The scope of damage to Iran’s nuclear infrastructure remains unclear, and Iranian authorities have not yet issued a detailed response. However, Israeli officials have indicated that the operation may continue in phases depending on Iran’s response and the evolving threat landscape.

Meanwhile, the United States has moved to distance itself from the strikes. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that Washington was not involved in the operation, saying Israel had acted unilaterally and that the U.S. priority remains the safety of its forces in the region. “Tonight, Israel took unilateral action against Iran. We are not involved,” Rubio stated as reported by BBC. “Our top priority is protecting American personnel. Iran should not target U.S. interests.”

Amid rising security concerns, the U.S. has ordered yesterday the partial evacuation of its embassy in Baghdad. Non-essential diplomatic staff and their families are being withdrawn, with officials citing increased risk of Iranian retaliation in Iraq from several neighbouring US embassies in West Asia. The precaution follows reports earlier this week that the U.S. was informed of Israel’s intention to strike.

The situation remains volatile, with the potential for regional spillover. Both military and diplomatic channels are closely monitoring developments, as fears grow of a wider conflict involving multiple regional actors.

International

Trump Pressures Netanyahu to Halt Gaza War, Warns Against Iran Strike Plans Amid Growing US-Israel Rift

June 12, 2025 by NOK Desk

US President Donald Trump has asked Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to end the war in Gaza and stop talk of a potential military strike on Iran, CNN reported, citing a source familiar with their recent phone conversation.

The phone call, which took place on Monday, comes amid ongoing indirect ceasefire negotiations between Hamas and the US, as well as Washington’s efforts to secure a nuclear agreement with Iran.

CNN noted that despite Trump later describing the call as “very well, very smooth,” tensions between the two leaders have grown in recent weeks over the Gaza conflict.

According to CNN, Trump urged Netanyahu during the call to stop public discussion of a potential attack on Iran and halt leaks about related military plans.

In response, Netanyahu reportedly told Trump that Iran was stalling through negotiations and was not genuinely committed to any deal.

Meanwhile, ceasefire negotiations have shown some movement. Netanyahu convened a meeting of top ministers on Tuesday night after “some progress” was made toward a deal, according to his office.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar also acknowledged recent advances, though he cautioned against premature optimism.

On Thursday, Hamas confirmed it had not rejected the US-proposed deal but sought stronger guarantees against future Israeli attacks.

The rift between the US and Israel appears to be deepening. The Trump administration recently bypassed Israel during a Middle East trip, secured a ceasefire deal with Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis that failed to curb missile attacks on Israel, and lifted sanctions on Syria–moves that have drawn criticism from Israeli officials.

The Trump administration is also working to expand the Abraham Accords, aiming to include Saudi Arabia.

However, Riyadh has maintained that normalisation with Israel is contingent upon steps toward Palestinian statehood and a two-state solution.

US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee told Bloomberg News that the two-state solution is no longer a goal of US policy, citing cultural and political realities.

Earlier in the war, Trump had floated the idea of a “Gaza Riviera” under US control, which would involve the relocation of a large portion of the Palestinian population from the coastal strip. (ANI)

International

Axiom-4 Launch Delayed: Indian Astronaut Shukla to Lift Off on June 11, Says Minister Jitendra Singh

June 11, 2025June 11, 2025 by NOK Desk

Union Minister for Earth Sciences Dr Jitendra Singh on Wednesday informed that the launch of Axiom-4, carrying Indian astronaut Shukla to the International Space Station (ISS), has been postponed due to a technical issue.

According to Singh, a liquid oxygen (LOX) leak was detected during a 7-second hot test of the Falcon 9 booster, prompting a joint review by ISRO, Axiom, and SpaceX teams.

In a post on X, Singh stated, “Mission Update | Axiom-04 The launch of Axiom Mission 4, carrying India’s astronaut Shukla to the ISS, is postponed. A liquid oxygen (LOX) leak was detected during a 7-second hot test of Falcon 9’s booster. After a joint review by ISRO, Axiom & SpaceX teams, it was decided to rectify the issue & revalidate before liftoff. Safety. Precision. Commitment to excellence.”

Singh emphasised the importance of safety, precision, and commitment to excellence in the mission and stated that further updates on the mission will be shared accordingly.

Earlier, Union Minister Jitendra Singh spoke about the exclusive missions that Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will perform during his Axiom4 space mission.

He also mentioned that the world recognises India’s growth and capabilities and said that this has been possible due to recent changes in the space sector.

In a video released by the Office of Jitendra Singh, speaking about Gaganyaan mission, he said, “Gaganyaan is a very ambitious mission as far as ISRO is concerned. The whole world is closely watching it.”

He added, “Gaganyaan will also involve docking and undocking, which will happen in this. Once they go up, it will take about 28 hours, then after 28 hours, it will reach about 400 kilometres from the surface of Earth, which is in American physiology, about 250 miles, and there the docking would happen. They would then enter into the space station. And remain there for a minimum of about two weeks, which could also be extended. So the experience: getting accustomed to that kind of exercise walking into and walking out would also be required in case of Gaganyaan, and also several future experiments, and more so India’s own space station. We plan to have our own exclusive space station by 2035, which will be known as Bharat Space Station, and for that also, this experience is going to come in handy.”

Speaking about the role which will be performed by Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, he said, “This time, Shubhanshu Shukla is going to play a very important role. He is going to have the most critical role because he will perform experiments which are exclusively going to have a bearing on the future space missions, not only those of India, also of NASA and other agencies. And I’m also glad to mention that it keeps up the spirit of the whole of science and the whole of government, which PM Modi keeps emphasising time and again. We got ISRO involved in an official MoU with the Department of Biotechnology. And as of now, Shubhanshu is scheduled to perform six sets of experiments. A) For example, about life sciences- the physical, physiological, and cognitive effects of being in space for a long while, which would affect the human body.”He added, “B) of course, the behavioral responses resulting from constant watching of the computer screen which is mandatory for all the astronauts. C) He is also going to experiment on the body’s response in extreme conditions. The effect of microgravity on muscle dysfunction and besides that, some plant-related research like how the cyanobacteria behave in microgravity, which could have a bearing on the production of food elements in space in times to come.”

He said, “These are very futuristic experiments which are exclusively assigned to Shubhanshu. Therefore, it’s a great breakthrough. This is a moment which would make our founding fathers proud- Vikram Sarabhai, Satish Dhawan. India today has reached that pedestal where we are looked upon as not junior partners, not as followers, but as partners who offer cues to others to follow. And this could be possible because of the reorientation of the space reforms, the opening of the space sector to the private players and it could not have been possible without the political will of the government in place.”

Union Minister Jitendra Singh thanked PM Modi for his leadership. “I have to thank PM Modi for he has the cpacity to make out-of-box decisions, break the taboos of the past because for six, seven decades we got conditioned to live with the belief that space has to act behind the veil of secrecy and it is not to be opened up to the private sector. Giving up that mindset, we are now following same global strategies, parameters, in fact, marching ahead of other nations as well.”

He elaborated, “We are now equal partners. The decision to have an Astronaut from India was taken and the offer was made to India incidentally when PM Modi was on a visit to Washington DC when President Biden was in place. So you can see there is also a reflection of the recognition of the Indian capabilities, Indian human resource, which is quite a departure from the earlier times when the capabilities of Indians were not taken seriously. That perception about India has also undergone a change.”

The Axiom-4 mission launch has been postponed to June 11, 2025, due to unfavorable weather conditions. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced that the mission, carrying Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla to the International Space Station (ISS), will now lift off at 5:30 PM IST on June 11.

ISRO wrote on X, “Launch of Axiom-4 mission to International Space Station: Due to weather conditions, the launch of Axiom-4 mission for sending Indian Gaganyatri to International Space Station is postponed from 10th June 2025 to 11th June 2025. The targeted time of launch is 5:30 PM IST on 11th June 2025: Dr V Narayanan, Chairman ISRO/ Secretary DOS / Chairman Space Commission.”

The Axiom-4 mission crew includes members from India, Poland, and Hungary, marking each nation’s first mission to the space station in history and the second government-sponsored human spaceflight mission in over 40 years, according to Axiom Space.

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla will be India’s second national astronaut to go to space since 1984. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is part of Axiom Space’s fourth private astronaut mission (Ax-4), marking a historic moment for India’s space collaboration with NASA.

Slawosz Uznanski, European Space Agency (ESA) project astronaut, will be the second Polish astronaut since 1978. Tibor Kapu will be the second national Hungarian astronaut since 1980. Peggy Whitson will command her second commercial human spaceflight mission, adding to her standing record for the longest cumulative time in space by an American astronaut. (ANI)

Trump Deploys 2,000 More National Guard Troops to L.A., California Sues Over ‘Unlawful’ Federalization

June 10, 2025 by NOK Desk

United States President Donald Trump is sending an additional 2,000 National Guard troops to support Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and federal law enforcement officers in Los Angeles, the Department of Defence confirmed.

Monday’s deployment is in addition to the 2,000 National Guard troops ordered to deploy by Trump on Saturday warning of tougher action against those protesting immigration arrests.

“At the order of the President, the Department of Defence is mobilising an additional 2,000 California National Guard to be called into federal service to support ICE & to enable federal law-enforcement officers to safely conduct their duties,” Sean Parnell, Assistant to the Secretary of Defence for Public Affairs, wrote on X.

The latest deployment comes on the same day California filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, asking a judge to declare the deployments unconstitutional.

In response to Monday’s filing, a White House spokesperson said California Governor Gavin Newsom should prioritise prosecuting “anti-ICE rioters” rather than suing the Trump administration.

“It’s pathetic that Newsom is more focused on saving face than protecting law enforcement and holding criminals accountable,” White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly said. “As the President said, Newsom should thank him for restoring law and order.”

During a news conference, California Attorney General Rob Bonta has strongly criticised Trump’s decision to federalise the state’s National Guard troops, calling it “unnecessary, counterproductive, and unlawful”.

This is California’s 24th lawsuit in 19 weeks against the Trump administration, Bonta said.

Bonta argues that Trump’s order abuses federal authority, violating the 10th Amendment and federal law, as it was made without Governor Gavin Newsom’s authorisation and against the wishes of local law enforcement, as per CNN.

The order “abused the federal government’s authority and violated the 10th Amendment and federal law,” according to Bonta, who said Trump made the order “without authorisation from Governor Newsom and against the wishes of local law enforcement.”

Further, Bonta said Hegseth ignored Newsom’s request to rescind the deployment.

In a post on X, California Governor Gavin Newsom has accused Trump of “creating fear and terror to take over a state militia and violate the US Constitution.”

Notably, the protests erupted after ICE agents conducted raids across the city, arresting dozens of undocumented immigrants. (ANI)

International

Israeli Forces Intercept Gaza-Bound Freedom Flotilla Carrying Activists and Aid

June 9, 2025 by NOK Desk

In a high-profile maritime incident, Israeli naval forces intercepted a Gaza-bound aid vessel named Madleen, part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, in international waters during the early hours of Sunday morning. The ship, flying a British flag, carried humanitarian aid intended for the besieged Gaza Strip and was crewed by a group of international activists, including prominent names like Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg and French Member of European Parliament Rima Hassan.

Interception and Boarding

The Madleen was intercepted approximately 100 nautical miles from the Gaza coast. According to the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, Israeli naval commandos used drones to spray an unknown white substance on the vessel and cut its satellite communications before forcibly boarding the ship. Activists claim that no warning was given prior to the action.

The Israeli military confirmed the operation, stating that the vessel was redirected to the Israeli port of Ashdod. The IDF (Israel Defense Forces) described the mission as “swift and professional,” emphasizing that the activists on board were detained peacefully and without injury. The humanitarian cargo has been seized and, according to Israeli authorities, will be inspected and delivered to Gaza “via established land crossings, pending security checks.”

Israeli Government’s Position

Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs labeled the operation as a necessary step to enforce the long-standing naval blockade on Gaza, which it claims is essential to prevent arms smuggling to Hamas and other militant groups. In an official statement, the Ministry described the Madleen as a “selfie yacht of celebrities” and called the mission “a political provocation rather than a genuine humanitarian effort.”

The Israeli government further asserted that the flotilla’s participants were seeking publicity and not interested in engaging with official humanitarian channels, which have been operating under international supervision.

Activists Denounce “Piracy”

On the other side, the Freedom Flotilla Coalition denounced the interception as an act of “state piracy,” accusing Israel of unlawfully boarding a civilian vessel in international waters. In a statement released shortly after contact with the ship was lost, the coalition said, “Our unarmed civilian vessel was carrying only food and medical aid. This was a peaceful mission of solidarity and support for the people of Gaza.”

Supporters of the mission have called for the immediate release of all detained activists and the return of the ship and its cargo. The organization claims the cargo included essential supplies like insulin, antibiotics, and water purification tablets—much-needed resources in Gaza, where the healthcare system is on the verge of collapse.

International Response

The interception has drawn mixed reactions from the international community. The United Nations Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in the Occupied Territories, Francesca Albanese, expressed concern over the use of force against unarmed civilians and reiterated the right to deliver humanitarian aid during crises.

France’s Foreign Ministry demanded clarification from Israeli authorities about the safety and whereabouts of Rima Hassan, while the European Parliament has called for an urgent session to discuss the legality of the naval blockade and its humanitarian impact.

Meanwhile, protests erupted in several cities, including Paris, Sydney, and London, where demonstrators held signs reading “End the Siege of Gaza” and “Freedom for the Flotilla.”

A History of Blockade Challenges

This is not the first time international activists have attempted to breach Israel’s blockade on Gaza. The most well-known attempt occurred in 2010, when Israeli forces raided a Turkish-led flotilla, resulting in the deaths of nine activists on the Mavi Marmara and sparking a major diplomatic crisis.

Since then, numerous flotilla missions have been launched, mostly ending in either interception or deterrence at sea. Israel maintains that its naval blockade, imposed in 2007 following Hamas’ takeover of Gaza, is in line with international law. However, critics argue that the blockade constitutes collective punishment and has worsened the humanitarian crisis in the densely populated enclave.

The Gaza Context

Gaza remains one of the most heavily restricted and impoverished regions in the world. After nearly nine months of intensified conflict in 2025, with over 30,000 deaths reported by local authorities and severe infrastructure collapse, the region is facing what the United Nations has described as a “full-scale humanitarian catastrophe.”

Famine, medicine shortages, and lack of clean water continue to plague the population. International efforts to deliver aid have been complicated by closed border crossings, security constraints, and logistical breakdowns.

What’s Next?

As of Monday morning, the activists detained aboard the Madleen are reportedly being held for questioning by Israeli authorities. It is unclear whether formal charges will be brought against them.

Human rights groups and international observers are closely monitoring the situation. The incident has once again brought attention to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and reignited global debate over the legality and morality of the Israeli blockade.

While the Israeli government remains firm in its security rationale, voices from civil society, international law experts, and affected communities continue to call for urgent diplomatic and humanitarian solutions to alleviate the suffering of Gaza’s civilians.

International

Saudi Arabia Launches Successful First-Ever Drone Medicine Delivery at Holy Sites Ahead of Hajj 1446

June 8, 2025 by NOK Desk

Saudi Arabia announced the successful pilot launch of drone-based medicine delivery between primary healthcare centres and hospitals in the holy sites, marking a significant milestone and a first-of-its-kind initiative, Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported Saturday.

The project aims to enhance the efficiency of healthcare services provided to pilgrims during the 1446 Hajj season.

The achievement was made possible through active collaboration between the Makkah Health Cluster and the National Unified Procurement Company (NUPCO), which jointly ensured the supply of medicines and medical equipment to the holy sites using drones.

The initiative is designed to accelerate response times and support healthcare operations by delivering medicines and medical supplies during Hajj. In one key instance, Mina Emergency Hospital received a drone delivery of ice packs used for treating heat exhaustion and sunstroke, as part of intensified preparedness efforts coinciding with the start of the stoning ritual on the first day of Eid Al-Adha.

The initiative aligns with the healthcare system’s commitment to creating a safe and healthy environment that enables pilgrims to perform their rituals with ease and comfort. It also reflects efforts to deliver world-class healthcare services in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. (ANI/WAM)

International

Indian Pilgrims Perform Wuquf-e-Arafat During Hajj 2025 Amid Smooth Arrangements by Indian Mission and Saudi Authorities

June 5, 2025 by NOK Desk

Indian pilgrims joined millions of others in Saudi Arabia today to perform Wuquf-e-Arafat, the core ritual of Hajj pilgrimage, the Embassy of India in Riyadh shared on Thursday.

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The Indian Embassy wrote on X, “Indian pilgrims join millions of other pilgrims today at Arafat to perform Wuquf-e-Arafat, the core ritual of Haj.”

In a video message, Consul General Fahad Suri said, “On this blessed day of Arafat, I extend my heartfelt greetings and best wishes to all the pilgrims gathered in Arafat, the pinnacle of the Hajj journey. These five sacred days spent in Meena, Arafat and Muzalifa are a time of deep reflection and devotion and form the core elements of Hajj. I am pleased to share that all pilgrims from India have safely arrived in Arafat and are currently engaged in prayers and supplications. Comprehensive arrangements have been made by Indian Hajj Mission in coordination with concerned Saudi authorities and agencies for the safe and smooth movement of pilgrims right from their transfer to Arafat, their stay here and further movements for Musalifa and Mina. We extend our sincere gratitude to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, its authorities, particularly the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, all concerned agencies and all service providers for their tireless efforts in facilitating a safe and spiritually fulfilling Hajj. Wishing all of you a successful Hajj and a blessed Eid-ul-Adha. Hajj ma brur, hajj ma bruk, Eid Mubarak.”

Indian pilgrims join millions of other pilgrims today at Arafat to perform Wuquf-e-Arafat, the core ritual of Haj.

Here is a message by Consul General @CGIJeddah Shri Fahad Suri from Arafat.@MEAIndia @PMOIndia @MOMAIndia @haj_committee @hajmission @PIB_India pic.twitter.com/CxZGfzkY1d
— India in Saudi Arabia (@IndianEmbRiyadh) June 5, 2025

India and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia enjoy close friendly relations reflecting the centuries old economic and socio-cultural ties. The annual Hajj pilgrimage is an important component of India-Saudi Arabia bilateral relations.

During PM Modi’s visit to Saudi Arabia earlier this year, the MEA noted in a previous statement that the Indian side had expressed its appreciation to the Saudi side for the continuing welfare of around 2.7 million Indian nationals residing in the Kingdom, reflecting the strong people- to-people bonds and immense goodwill that exists between the two nations.

The Indian side also congratulated Saudi Arabia for successfully holding the Haj pilgrimage in 2024 and expressed its appreciation for the excellent coordination between the two countries in facilitating Indian Haj and Umrah pilgrims. (ANI)

Trump Bans New Foreign Students at Harvard, Imposes Travel Curbs on 19 Nations Citing Security Threats

June 5, 2025 by NOK Desk

In a significant move invoking national security concerns, US President Donald J. Trump has announced a visa ban for international students planning to begin studies at Harvard University.

In an order he signed on Wednesday night, Trump issued a proclamation suspending the entry of foreign nationals seeking to study or participate in exchange visitor programs at Harvard University.

Citing multiple compliance failures and national security risks, Trump said the prestigious institution has “rendered itself an unsuitable destination for foreign students and researchers.”

“Admission into the United States to attend, conduct research, or teach at our Nation’s institutions of higher education is a privilege… Harvard University has failed in this respect,” Trump said in the proclamation.

The proclamation pointed to Harvard’s alleged refusal to share disciplinary and criminal information regarding foreign students with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), despite specific requests for data on “known illegal activity,” threats, and other misconduct.

According to the proclamation, Harvard provided information on only three students, which the DHS deemed insufficient to determine further action.

“These actions and failures directly undermine the Federal Government’s ability to ensure that foreign nationals… remain in compliance with Federal law,” the proclamation read.

Trump cited warnings from the FBI about foreign adversaries, including China, exploiting the American higher education system to steal intellectual property and spread misinformation. He also accused Harvard of fostering entanglements with foreign governments, receiving over $1 billion in foreign funding in the past five years–including over $150 million from China–and collaborating with individuals tied to the Chinese military, as noted by a US House Select Committee probe.

Harvard’s alleged failure to discipline campus misconduct and its “continued discrimination” in admissions post the Supreme Court’s ruling were also cited as grounds for the decision. “It is not in the interest of the United States to further compound Harvard’s discrimination… by further reducing opportunities for American students through excessive foreign student enrollment,” Trump noted.

Under sections 212(f) and 215(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, Trump suspended entry of all nonimmigrant students under F, M, or J visas who intend to begin studies at Harvard after the date of the proclamation. The measure is effective for six months and may be extended upon review.

The Secretary of State and Secretary of Homeland Security have been directed to implement the proclamation and assess whether existing foreign students at Harvard should have their visas revoked. The proclamation provides exemptions for foreign nationals whose entry is deemed in the national interest.

“The entry of the class of foreign nationals described above is detrimental to the interests of the United States,” Trump declared, adding that until Harvard complies with federal requirements, the institution will be restricted from hosting international students under the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).

The order, signed by Trump on June 4, 2025, further authorizes federal departments to consider limiting Harvard’s participation in SEVP and the related information systems, with exceptions for cases deemed to serve national interest.

Trump has also signed an orer which imposes travel restrictions on nationals from 19 countries to the US, citing national security risks, according to the White House.

The countries are Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen.
The proclamation goes into effect on June 9.

Trump He posted a video announcing the travel ban on his social media platform, Truth Social. The US President has cited the recent attack in Colorado to illustrate the “extreme dangers” of foreign nationals entering the US without being “properly vetted”.

The proclamation signed by Trump also partially restricts travel to the US by nationals from seven other countries: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela. (ANI)