Trump Signs Executive Orders Overhauling Military Policies, Reinstating Discharged Service Members
Washington, The Gulf Observer: US President Donald Trump signed a series of executive orders on Monday that aim to reshape military policies, eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, reinstating military members who were discharged for refusing to comply with vaccine mandates, and addressing issues surrounding gender identity in the armed forces.
According to the White House, Trump’s executive orders include provisions that will end DEI initiatives within the military, marking a shift away from policies that prioritize diversity in favor of a more traditional approach to military readiness and operational effectiveness. Additionally, Trump signed an executive order aimed at eliminating “gender radicalism” in the military.
While addressing House Republicans in Miami, Florida, Trump outlined the intent behind these executive actions. He stated that these measures were necessary to ensure the US military remains “the most lethal fighting force in the world,” adding that his policies would focus on removing “transgender ideology” from the armed forces. He also announced a directive barring transgender individuals from serving in the military, stating that the order was crucial for maintaining a strong and effective fighting force.
In further remarks, Trump also called for the development of an “Iron Dome” missile defense system to better protect the US, highlighting the need to prioritize national defense infrastructure. “We protect other countries, but we don’t protect ourselves,” Trump said, emphasizing the importance of advancing US defense technology.
In addition to the military policy changes, Trump’s executive orders also included provisions for reinstating service members who had been discharged due to their refusal to comply with the Covid-19 vaccination mandate. He confirmed that these individuals would be offered full reinstatement to their previous ranks, with back pay.
“I will restore them to their former rank with full pay,” Trump said, reflecting his commitment to reversing what he described as unjust discharges due to vaccination requirements.
The executive orders were signed as Trump was returning from Miami to Washington, continuing his efforts to reshape US military and defense policies.
