U.S. Army Bans Transgender Recruits, Ends Gender-Affirming Care

The U.S. Army has officially banned transgender individuals from enlisting and stopped all gender-affirming medical procedures for active-duty service members, effective immediately. This policy change follows an executive order from President Donald Trump, reinstating a ban that had been lifted under the Biden administration. The Army's announcement emphasizes that individuals with gender dysphoria will no longer be allowed to access military resources for gender transition procedures, citing concerns over military readiness and unit cohesion. The decision has sparked significant backlash, with legal challenges underway from active-duty transgender service members and support from 20 state attorneys general who argue it discriminates against a vulnerable population. Critics assert that this move undermines the contributions of qualified transgender personnel, while the Army maintains it will treat all service members with respect. The policy reflects a broader shift in military priorities under the current administration, focusing on traditional military values over inclusivity initiatives.