The U.S. Department of Defense has unveiled a new policy that will discharge transgender service members from the military unless they secure an exemption. Outlined in a memo filed in court on Wednesday, the directive essentially bars transgender individuals from either enlisting or continuing their military service.
This policy expands upon earlier restrictions by mandating that the military identify all transgender personnel within 30 days, after which a discharge process will be initiated within the following month. Exemptions will only be granted when retaining a service member is deemed critical for combat operations.
Read more Controversial Anti-Muslim Citizenship Law Enacted In India Pre-Elections
The Pentagon argued that military service requires high levels of readiness and cohesion, asserting that gender dysphoria and its associated medical issues do not align with these standards. Under the new rules, waivers may be issued to those who have consistently maintained their assigned gender for at least 36 consecutive months.
Critics have described this move as a broad attempt to eliminate transgender troops from the armed forces. Advocacy organizations, including the National Center for Lesbian Rights, have already challenged the policy in court, claiming it infringes upon constitutional rights.
Although public support for transgender military service remains relatively high, a recent Gallup poll indicates a decrease in approval compared to previous years.
