How will future students in Harvard’s negotiation courses rate the university’s own efforts against the Trump administration? America’s oldest and richest university has so far resisted Donald Trump’s extortion scheme. But the government’s funding threats look grave. Columbia University, another victim of Mr Trump’s bullying, recently settled with the administration for over $200m—an expensive shakedown. Harvard is reportedly prepared to put up even more. Our story considers Harvard’s options.

Turning to international ultimatums, our leader considers Sir Keir Starmer’s announcement that Britain would recognise a Palestinian state. France’s president made a similar pledge last week. They hope to stop the fighting in Gaza and save the idea of two states for two peoples. The Economist shares those aims. But, as our leader argues, the British and French decision will do little to bring about peace.