Trump Reveals Plan To Deport Who?
During a private donor event on May 14 in New York, former President Donald Trump promised to adopt a stringent approach toward pro-Palestinian student protesters if re-elected. He mentioned that he would consider deporting foreign students who participate in protests, believing that such a measure would curb their activism. Trump’s remarks were reported by the Washington Post.
He characterized the student demonstrators as part of a “radical revolution” and commended the New York Police Department for its role in dismantling a protest encampment at Columbia University. Trump asserted that his re-election would significantly hinder such movements, aiming to reverse their progress by decades.
Trump’s handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict has been a contentious issue, especially among his Republican primary opponents. His comments praising Hezbollah as “very smart” and expressing disappointment in Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision not to support the U.S. drone strike that killed Iranian General Qassem Soleimani in 2020 have drawn criticism. Recently, Trump urged Netanyahu to conclude the conflict and return to peace following the violent events of October 7, when Hamas attacked, resulting in around 1,200 deaths and 250 hostages.
In the donor meeting, Trump reiterated his support for Israel, describing the fight against Hamas as a “war on terror” and highlighting his achievements in the Middle East. He mentioned his recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, equating its value to $2 trillion in real estate terms. Trump questioned why Jewish individuals would support Democratic candidates, specifically President Joe Biden, accusing Democrats of consistently disappointing their supporters.
Trump’s campaign defended his record, emphasizing that his return to the presidency would ensure Israel’s security, weaken Iran, and reduce terrorism. Campaign spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt assured that Trump would bring an end to the bloodshed.
Conversely, the Biden campaign criticized Trump’s rhetoric and approach to the Israel-Hamas conflict. Spokesman Charles Lutvak highlighted Trump’s past controversial statements, including his comment on Neo-Nazi marchers, and accused him of disrespecting the Jewish community with his recurring, patronizing remarks.