Harvard University filed a federal lawsuit on Monday challenging the Trump administration’s proposed $2.2 bn in funding cuts, calling the move an unlawful overreach, according to BBC.

The lawsuit follows escalating tensions after Harvard rejected demands from the Trump administration aimed at curbing diversity programs and addressing anti-Semitism.

The administration’s demands included government-approved audits of Harvard’s curriculum, admissions, and hiring practices. Harvard President Alan M. Garber warned the consequences of the government’s actions would be “severe and long-lasting,” criticizing the intrusion into academic independence, BBC reported.

In addition to freezing federal funds, the Trump administration also threatened the university’s tax-exempt status and its ability to enroll international students.