Trump Halts Federal Funding for Gain-of-Function Virus Research

Former President Donald Trump has signed an executive order halting all federal funding for gain-of-function virus research, particularly in countries with insufficient safety oversight such as China and Iran. The order aims to prevent laboratory accidents that could lead to future pandemics and also pauses similar research in the U.S. until stricter safeguards are established. Trump and some officials cited concerns that research funded at the Wuhan Institute of Virology may have contributed to the COVID-19 pandemic, although the origins of the virus remain politically sensitive and debated. The executive order also empowers U.S. agencies to identify and defund other biological research deemed a threat to public health or national security. While many scientists argue that gain-of-function research is important for pandemic preparedness, the order reflects ongoing political and scientific controversy over its risks and benefits.