The Pentagon has announced that the execution of Nidal Hasan, the former army psychiatrist responsible for the deaths of 13 people at Fort Hood, will be carried out by firing squad and livestreamed to the public. The unprecedented move, confirmed by US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, is scheduled for 1pm on Thursday, 3 December, at the military base in Texas, marking the first US military execution in more than six decades. Secretary Hegseth affirmed the government's commitment to ensuring public access to the event.

Hasan, a former Major in the US Army, was convicted for the November 2009 mass shooting at Fort Hood, which also left more than 30 people wounded. The attack, one of the deadliest on a US military installation, led to his court-martial and subsequent death sentence. His crimes, carried out by a serving military officer, shook the nation and prompted widespread debate on military security and personnel vetting procedures. The decision to proceed with his execution by firing squad underscores the gravity with which the military justice system views his actions.

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth initially characterised the impending execution as a "public event" in an interview with Real America’s Voice. This statement was later clarified by officials, who confirmed that the execution itself would be broadcast live. Secretary Hegseth further supported this stance, stating, "We'll make sure that people are able to watch it," indicating the administration's intent for transparency regarding the rare military capital punishment. The announcement ensures that the proceedings, typically held away from public scrutiny, will be made accessible through digital means.

The specific timing and location for the sentence to be carried out have been firmly set for 1pm on 3 December at Fort Hood, Texas. This meticulous planning reflects the gravity of the occasion, as it represents a significant moment in the history of the US armed forces' judicial system. The last time the US military executed a service member was over 60 years ago, making Hasan's execution a landmark event that draws considerable public attention and scrutiny, both domestically and internationally.

Further details regarding the technical aspects of the livestream and the precise protocols for the execution are expected to be released by military officials in the coming weeks. The Pentagon's decision to permit a livestreamed viewing of the execution signals a modern approach to military justice, balancing the solemnity of capital punishment with a commitment to public accountability and transparency.