DHS targets over 5,000 student protesters for deportation investigations

In the United States, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has been scrutinizing over 5,000 individuals linked to pro-Palestinian protests on college campuses. This initiative emerged during a federal court hearing on July 9, 2025, where Peter Hatch, a senior official at DHS, testified about the existence of a specialized team called the 'Tiger Team' formed to investigate these student protesters. The Tiger Team's efforts primarily utilized information from the Canary Mission website, which claims to track individuals accused of promoting anti-American or anti-Israel sentiments within academic settings. This controversial project has raised significant concerns regarding freedom of speech and academic freedoms in the context of the First Amendment, with numerous university organizations and groups challenging the legality of such investigations. The lawsuit arose after allegations surfaced that the previous administration had engaged in targeting international students and scholars who expressed views critical of U.S. or Israeli policies regarding Palestine. With many expressing fears over government overreach, the case has garnered attention as it highlights potential violations of constitutional rights. In light of these revelations, ongoing legal battles seek to determine the extent of the government’s powers in surveilling and acting against misconduct alleged among pro-Palestinian advocates in educational institutions.