Trump Orders Revision of Transgender Troops Policy and Deployment of Iron Dome for US

Washington : On Monday, President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to revise the Pentagon’s policy on transgender troops, signaling the potential for a future ban on their military service. Additionally, the order called for the reinstatement of troops who had left voluntarily or been dismissed for refusing COVID-19 vaccines. The executive order also included the deployment of a space-based missile defense shield for the U.S.
Trump’s order, which sought to address concerns over transgender service members, claimed that individuals who identify as a gender other than their biological one pose a conflict with the military’s commitment to discipline and readiness. The policy revision sets the stage for a potential ban, though Hegseth is tasked with determining how to implement it.

In a broader military policy shift, Trump’s order also impacts troops who left due to vaccine mandates, with notices sent in 2023 offering them the opportunity to return. However, only a small number have reenlisted so far, and the reinstatement process requires meeting military entry standards. Trump’s administration has been clear that the military should not lower its standards.

In another controversial move, the Trump administration has also moved to halt the supply of critical medical drugs for HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis, as well as life-saving supplies for newborns, through USAID in countries around the world. This directive has prompted immediate cessation of work from contractors and partners associated with USAID.