In a controversial and sweeping policy shift, the Department of Defense under former President Donald Trump has quietly reinstated a set of procedures aimed at identifying and removing transgender service members from active duty. The new directive instructs military commanders to identify personnel who are either openly transgender or have been diagnosed with gender dysphoria, and to refer them for mandatory medical evaluations that could lead to their discharge from the armed forces.
The policy, which began implementation in mid-September 2025, marks a return to restrictions that had been rolled back during previous administrations. According to internal memos, commanders across all branches are now required to report any service member who may not conform to their “biological sex at birth,” as defined in their military records.
Those flagged under the new guidance will be subject to medical reviews assessing “fitness for service,” with gender dysphoria being treated as a disqualifying condition. The outcome of these reviews could result in either administrative separation (discharge) or reassignment to non-combat roles, though critics warn that most cases will likely lead to removal from duty entirely.
The new rules also prevent service members from receiving gender-affirming healthcare through military channels. Hormone therapy, transition-related surgeries, and psychological support related to gender identity are now excluded from military health coverage—effectively cutting off essential care for many currently serving.
Trump’s team has defended the move as a “return to readiness,” arguing that medical conditions like gender dysphoria are incompatible with military life. A spokesperson for the Department of Defense said, “Military service requires clarity, cohesion, and focus. Any condition—physical or psychological—that interferes with unit readiness must be addressed.”
However, advocacy groups and legal experts are raising alarms. LGBTQ+ organizations have already begun mobilizing legal challenges, calling the policy discriminatory, unconstitutional, and harmful to national security. “This isn’t about readiness—it’s about erasing transgender people from public service,” said one civil rights attorney involved in pending litigation.
For many transgender service members, the directive has created a chilling effect. Reports have already surfaced of individuals being pressured to hide their identities, cancel medical treatments, or even request early separation from the military rather than face forced evaluations or public outing.
The move comes at a time when the U.S. military is already facing recruitment shortfalls and retention issues. Critics argue that pushing out capable, qualified troops based on gender identity not only violates basic human rights but weakens the force overall.
This policy shift reflects a broader political strategy by Trump’s team to reassert conservative cultural priorities across federal institutions, including the military. While legal battles are expected to play out in federal courts, the immediate impact is already being felt on bases across the country—and around the world.
As this policy takes effect, thousands of transgender service members now face an uncertain future—torn between their commitment to serve and a government that no longer permits them to do so authentically.