Harvard urges US judge to unblock $2.5 billion in federal research funds, says national security, public health research in peril

Harvard University has asked a federal court to unfreeze $2.5 billion in research funds, claiming the Trump administration’s decision to block the grants was illegal, retaliatory, and damaging to national interest. The funds supported critical projects in health, defence, and science. The university argues the freeze violates free speech, due process, and undermines academic independence. With over 950 research initiatives halted and court arguments set for July, Harvard warns the disruption will cause long-term damage to U.S. scientific leadership and national security.