US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order aimed at eliminating what he refers to as “transgender ideology” from the military. This decision marks a significant step back for LGBTQ rights and has been met with criticism from various quarters.
During a series of military-related announcements aboard Air Force One, Trump also called for the development of a US equivalent of Israel’s Iron Dome missile defence system. The executive orders reinstated service members who had been dismissed for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine and expanded efforts to eliminate diversity programmes within the armed forces.
Trump’s order claims that the military has been “afflicted with radical gender ideology to appease activists” and argues that “many mental and physical health conditions are incompatible with active duty.” The order also states that adopting a gender identity inconsistent with one’s sex conflicts with a soldier’s commitment to an honourable, truthful, and disciplined lifestyle.
A separate order denounces diversity programmes in the military, arguing they “undermine leadership, merit, and unit cohesion, thereby eroding lethality and force readiness.” It also bans discussions on “gender ideology” and labels theories suggesting America’s founding documents are racist or sexist as “un-American.”
The orders coincide with the start of Trump’s second week back in the White House and a welcome ceremony at the Pentagon for his newly appointed defence secretary, Pete Hegseth. Hegseth, a military veteran and Fox News personality, was confirmed despite concerns over his limited experience and allegations of misconduct.
Transgender Americans have experienced fluctuating military policies in recent years, with Democratic administrations pushing to allow them to serve openly, while Trump has repeatedly sought to exclude them. The US military lifted its ban on transgender service members in 2016 under President Barack Obama, but Trump delayed and ultimately reversed the policy during his first term. President Joe Biden reinstated inclusive policies upon taking office in 2021.
