U.S. military conscientious objector applications spike

The number of U.S. service members seeking formal discharge as conscientious objectors has increased significantly following the start of Operation Epic Fury against Iran in late February. Organizations assisting troops, including the Center on Conscience and War and the GI Rights Hotline at Quaker House, report that application rates are at their highest levels in 25 years.

Unlike historical trends where objectors were typically junior enlisted personnel, current applicants include officers up to the rank of major and individuals who attended military service academies. Many of these service members have served for more than a decade.

Some service members have alleged that they were ordered to carry out actions that violate international humanitarian law, such as targeting civilian infrastructure. The GI Rights Hotline reported 429 inquiries in March and 440 in April, noting that these figures may not fully capture the level of unease within the ranks.