Secretary of State Marco Rubio launched an investigation into Harvard University's compliance with the government-run visa program for international students and professors on Wednesday—the latest flashpoint in the ongoing feud over campus control.

The State Department is examining Harvard University's role in a visa program. This follows Harvard's rejection of demands from a federal task force. The administration has previously targeted Harvard.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio said a probe will ensure the programme does ‘not run contrary to our nation’s interests’.

Harvard president Alan Garber, an economist and doctor, is battling the White House in court on behalf of all higher education.