The Trump administration has opened a federal investigation into the University of Washington (UW) after a large-scale anti-Israel protest on campus escalated into vandalism and violence. The incident, which included the occupation of a university building, acts of arson, and the arrest of over 30 individuals, has triggered national concern and drawn scrutiny from federal officials.
The protest was reportedly organized by a student-led group advocating for Palestinian rights. Authorities say the event rapidly intensified, with participants setting fires and damaging property. Seattle police intervened, leading to mass arrests and the shutdown of parts of the university’s campus.
In response, the federal Joint Task Force to Combat Antisemitism, formed under President Trump’s executive order to address antisemitism in educational institutions, has launched a formal review. The investigation is being led by the U.S. Departments of Education, Health and Human Services, and the General Services Administration.
Federal officials are assessing whether UW failed to protect Jewish students from harassment or discrimination during the protest. Education Secretary Linda McMahon stated that the university must uphold its responsibility to provide a safe learning environment for all students, regardless of their religious or ethnic background.
The Trump administration warned that failure to meet federal standards for campus safety and nondiscrimination could result in serious consequences, including the potential suspension of federal funding.
The University of Washington has condemned the violence and reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive campus. The university is cooperating with authorities and conducting its own internal review of the incident.
This probe is part of a wider federal crackdown on antisemitic activity at U.S. colleges and universities, with similar investigations reportedly underway at other institutions, including Ivy League campuses.
