Pentagon Reinstates Transgender Military Ban

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has issued a directive halting the accession of individuals with a history of gender dysphoria into the U.S. military and pausing all gender transition-related medical procedures for service members. This move aligns with President Donald Trump’s executive order emphasizing military readiness and cohesion over identity politics. Hegseth insists these changes are necessary to maintain a unified force and that service members should be evaluated based on ability and mission adherence. Despite the restrictions, Hegseth has stated that transgender service members will be treated with dignity and respect. Critics have challenged the order, arguing it violates constitutional protections of equal rights, and legal action has been initiated. The policy shift marks a significant reversal from previous administration policies under President Biden, who had lifted the ban on transgender service members.