U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Monday aimed at removing what he called “transgender ideology” from the military.
The move, which marks a significant rollback of LGBTQ rights, was announced during a Republican congressional retreat in Miami. 
Trump claimed the initiative was necessary to maintain the military’s “lethal fighting force.”
“To ensure we have the most lethal fighting force in the world, we will get transgender ideology the hell out of our military,” Trump declared.
The order stated that adopting a gender identity inconsistent with one’s sex conflicts with the military’s values of honor and discipline.
Moreover, it claimed that gender diversity initiatives undermine leadership and force readiness, describing them as “un-American.”
This policy shift comes as part of broader changes in military governance under Trump’s second administration.
Additional orders were issued to reinstate service members dismissed for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine and to eliminate diversity programs within the armed forces.
Trump’s new defense secretary, Pete Hegseth, expressed support, stating, “Thank you for your leadership, Mr. President. We will execute!”
Meanwhile, the exclusion of transgender troops, who make up an estimated 15,000 personnel, raises concerns about recruitment challenges.
Former Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin criticized the move, stating, “Any military that turns away qualified patriots eager to serve is just making itself smaller and weaker.”
Trump also reiterated plans to develop a U.S. version of Israel’s Iron Dome missile defense system, emphasizing domestic manufacturing to address growing security concerns.
