Pentagon's Transgender Directive: Immediate Military Restructuring Begins

The Pentagon has announced an immediate restructuring plan involving the removal of up to 1,000 transgender service members from the military. This initiative follows a recent Supreme Court ruling that permits the Trump administration to enforce a ban on transgender individuals serving in the military. The court's decision coincides with a new directive issued by Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth.

Hegseth, advocating for a shift in military policies, expressed on social media, ''No More Trans @ DoD.'' He further emphasized a move away from ''wokeness and weakness'' during a conference speech in Tampa. Under this directive, military officials will examine medical records to identify service members who fit the criteria for separation or meet a diagnosis of gender dysphoria.

The numbers are significant, with at least 4,240 diagnosed with gender dysphoria among active duty, National Guard, and Reserve, although estimates suggest the actual figure may be higher. Pentagon memos defend the controversial policy by labeling the constraints associated with gender dysphoria as incompatible with military standards targeting mental and physical readiness. Despite facing legal challenges, the directive is moving forward promptly under these guidelines.

(With inputs from agencies.)