President Donald Trump is set to sign an executive order today aimed at combating antisemitism, particularly in response to rising incidents following the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israel, Reuters reported.

The order promises “immediate action” by the Justice Department to prosecute threats, vandalism, and violence against American Jews, focusing on antisemitism linked to pro-Palestinian protests.

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President Vows to Deport College Students

Trump also vowed to deport non-citizen college students involved in these protests, including those who support Palestine, calling for the removal of “resident aliens” who violate laws.

The order will also demand agencies provide recommendations on criminal and civil actions to address antisemitism within 60 days.

Protests related to the Gaza conflict led to several months of unrest, particularly on U.S. college campuses, with many civil rights groups documenting incidents of antisemitism and violence.

Trump’s plan to fight antisemitism would “marshal all federal resources” and bring immediate action from the Justice Department to investigate and punish offenders on U.S. campuses, the Associated Press reported.

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Critics Say Order Violates Free Speech

Critics, including the Council on American-Islamic Relations, argue that the order undermines free speech and targets Palestinian rights activists under the pretense of combating antisemitism.

During his 2024 campaign, Trump promised to deport “pro-Hamas” students. He also has signed an executive order providing broader powers to block or expel foreign nationals, particularly those from Muslim-majority countries.

Read more at Reuters. 

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