Pentagon Authorized Firing Squad for Nidal Malik Hasan
The Pentagon will carry out the execution of Nidal Malik Hasan, who was convicted for the 2009 Fort Hood shooting.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Military
The Pentagon announced that Nidal Malik Hasan, who killed 13 people in a 2009 shooting at Fort Hood, will face execution by firing squad. President Donald Trump granted formal approval for the sentence following a recommendation from Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.
Why it matters
The decision marks a significant development in the aftermath of one of the deadliest shootings on a U.S. military installation. The execution mandate follows Hasan's 2013 military trial where he was convicted and admitted to the crime.
A military jury convicted Nidal Malik Hasan on 13 counts of murder and 32 counts of attempted murder. The date and location of the execution remain to be determined by military authorities.
The players
Nidal Malik Hasan
He is the individual convicted by a military jury for the 2009 shooting at Fort Hood.
Pete Hegseth
He serves as the Secretary of Defense who recommended the execution for Nidal Malik Hasan.
Donald Trump
He is the current President of the United States who granted formal approval for the execution.
The details
Nidal Malik Hasan, who admitted to the shooting during his 2013 trial, will now face the death penalty via firing squad. This authorization follows formal approval from the President and a recommendation by the Secretary of Defense regarding the 2009 incident at Fort Hood.
Timeline
November 5, 2009: Nidal Malik Hasan committed a shooting at Fort Hood.
2013: Hasan was tried by a military court.
Political Context
Opponents of the death penalty within the military justice system have historically raised concerns regarding the proportionality and morality of capital punishment. This execution authorization contrasts with broader trends of states moving away from the use of the firing squad.
This decision confirms that the military justice system is proceeding with the execution of a high-profile convicted murderer. It serves as a reminder of current federal and military policies regarding capital punishment and judicial finality.
The takeaway
The resolution of this case brings a definitive conclusion to a long-standing military legal process concerning the 2009 shooting. The action underscores the current administration's stance on enforcing capital punishment for capital crimes within the military.
Further reading
For more on the developments within the armed forces, visit the Military section.
