Pentagon officials have announced the cessation of gender transition treatments for transgender service members, according to a recent memo. This decision appears to be part of a broader effort to enforce a policy that may potentially remove transgender individuals from the U.S. military.
The memo, reported by Reuters, indicates that the Department of Defense will no longer permit new hormonal treatments or surgical interventions for transgender personnel. Stephen Ferrara, the deputy director of Health Affairs at the Secretary of Defense’s office, emphasized the urgency of implementing these changes in a recent communication.
A transgender service member expressed deep disappointment, referring to the policy shift as “the latest slap in the face,” emphasizing their commitment to serving honorably in the military.
“If there’s doubt, then it’s clear—transgender personnel will not receive the same health care benefits as their peers,” they shared, opting to remain anonymous due to concerns about repercussions.
Last month, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth voiced his disapproval of transition-related treatments on social media, linking to an article suggesting that the Pentagon might resume such practices for transgender service members and their families.
Hegseth commented, “If this is accurate, we will find a way to stop it. Taxpayer funds should not support this policy.” Since taking office, he has focused on dismantling diversity initiatives, particularly regarding transgender personnel.
Recently, the U.S. Supreme Court authorized the Trump administration to uphold a ban on transgender individuals serving in the military, which may lead to the discharge of many current transgender personnel and block new recruitment efforts amidst ongoing legal disputes.
A memo from Hegseth outlined a directive requiring the dismissal of transgender troops who do not voluntarily exit by June 6th. This action follows an executive order signed by Trump soon after his return to the White House, which reversed policies from the Biden administration that had supported transgender service. Officials estimate that approximately 4,240 transgender individuals currently serve in active duty and the National Guard, although some advocates suggest the actual number could be higher.
