A Pentagon memo filed in court on Wednesday disclosed that transgender service members will be separated from the U.S. military unless granted an exemption, effectively prohibiting them from enlisting or serving in the military. This action, surpassing previous restrictions imposed by President Donald Trump on transgender service members during his initial term, has been deemed unprecedented by advocates. The Pentagon’s recent move extends the ban to current military personnel, requiring the identification and subsequent discharge of transgender troops within a strict timeline. The memo emphasizes the government’s commitment to upholding high standards for service members’ readiness and integrity, citing concerns regarding medical and mental health constraints related to gender dysphoria. Waivers may be considered in exceptional cases, subject to stringent criteria and government interests supporting warfighting capabilities. The memo’s filing, part of a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the executive order, has sparked debate on transgender rights and military service. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has assured that individuals with gender dysphoria already in the military will be treated with dignity. Despite differing estimates on the number of transgender service members, the issue remains a topic of public opinion, with recent polls reflecting a decline in support for openly transgender individuals serving in the military.
The text was contributed by Aftab Ahmed and edited by Gerry Doyle.
