President Trump has rolled back restrictions on U.S. military commanders, granting them more authority to approve airstrikes and special operations raids outside conventional battlefields. The policy shift expands the range of potential targets and marks a return to the more aggressive counterterrorism approach seen during Trump’s first term, according to U.S. officials familiar with the changes.
This recalibration dismantles Biden-era policies that placed stricter oversight on military operations, prioritizing centralized decision-making. Now, with Trump’s directive, commanders will have greater autonomy in determining targets without requiring multiple layers of executive approval.
Earlier this month, during his first overseas trip, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth met with U.S. military leaders from U.S. Africa Command in Germany. During that meeting, he signed a directive loosening constraints on airstrikes and special operations deployments.
A senior Defense Department official, speaking anonymously, told CBS News that Biden’s approach to military operations largely mirrored that of former President Barack Obama’s second term, with airstrikes primarily focused on senior terrorist leaders. In contrast, Trump’s revised policy broadens the scope of operations, allowing U.S. forces to engage a wider range of threats with fewer bureaucratic hurdles.
While the administration argues this move enhances national security and operational efficiency, critics warn it could lead to increased civilian casualties and strained diplomatic relations in conflict zones. The policy shift is expected to shape U.S. military strategy in the coming months, as officials weigh the risks and benefits of a more flexible targeting framework.