Harvard Wins Reprieve: Judge Blocks Trump's Attempt to Bar International Students

A federal judge in Boston is poised to issue a preliminary injunction that could prevent the Trump administration from revoking Harvard University's ability to enroll international students. The decision comes as Harvard holds its commencement ceremony, adding a layer of urgency to the situation. ABC News' Selina Wang reported live from the scene, emphasizing the high stakes for the nearly 7,000 international students whose futures hang in the balance. The Trump administration's action was based on allegations of antisemitism and a lack of a safe campus environment, claims that Harvard vehemently denies. "The stakes are extremely high here," Wang stated, noting the ongoing legal battle between Harvard and the administration. The judge's decision to maintain the status quo until a preliminary injunction is issued offers a significant reprieve to the students and the university. This is just one front in a broader pressure campaign by the Trump administration against Harvard, which also includes a lawsuit over the freezing of billions of dollars in federal contracts. The judge's statement, according to ABC News' producer, was, "I do think an order is necessary. It doesn't need to be Draconian, but I want to make sure nothing changes. I want to maintain the status quo." The outcome of this legal battle will have wide-ranging implications for international students and higher education in the United States.