Pentagon reinstates ban on transgender troops, halts medical transition treatments

The U.S. military has reinstated a ban on transgender individuals enlisting and paused all gender transition-related medical treatments for current service members, as detailed in a memo from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. This directive follows President Trump's recent executive order, which asserts that transgender identities conflict with military values, although existing personnel with gender dysphoria are promised dignity and respect. Advocacy groups argue that this policy affects up to 15,000 transgender service members, despite official estimates suggesting a lower number. Legal challenges are emerging, with civil rights organizations seeking temporary restraining orders to protect the rights of affected service members. Public support for transgender individuals serving openly in the military has declined from 71% in 2019 to 58% in a recent Gallup poll, particularly among Republicans. The ongoing controversy highlights the fluctuating policies surrounding transgender service members, reflecting the broader political landscape surrounding LGBTQ+ rights.