Trump Administration Eases Restrictions on Military Strikes and Raids

New Pentagon directive grants U.S. commanders greater autonomy in targeting terrorist groups, reversing Biden-era constraints.

President Trump has rolled back Biden-era policies requiring extensive executive oversight for military airstrikes and raids.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth signed the directive during a meeting with U.S. Africa Command leaders in Germany earlier this month.
The policy change broadens the scope of potential targets and gives commanders more flexibility to authorize operations.
Officials highlight both potential benefits, such as faster neutralization of terrorist threats, and risks, including increased chances of civilian casualties.
The directive identifies groups like Somalia-based al-Shabaab and Yemen's Houthis as potential targets under the new guidelines.