The U.S. Supreme Court has allowed a ban on transgender individuals serving in the military—originally introduced under former President Donald Trump—to take effect, lifting lower court injunctions that had previously blocked it.
The decision does not represent a final ruling on the legality of the ban but permits its enforcement while legal challenges continue in lower courts. The policy, first announced by Trump via Twitter in 2017, reverses the Obama-era decision that allowed transgender individuals to serve openly in the military.
Critics, including civil rights groups, argue the ban is discriminatory and harms military readiness by excluding capable individuals based on gender identity. The Trump administration claimed the ban was necessary to ensure military effectiveness and avoid disruptions.
The ruling has sparked renewed debate over LGBTQ+ rights in the armed forces and the scope of presidential authority over military policy.