The Trump administration has confirmed that Army Major Nidal Malik Hasan, the extremist who carried out the 2009 Fort Hood shooting in Texas, will be executed by a U.S. Army firing squad. The decision follows a recommendation from Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and reflects the administration’s commitment to justice for the 13 service members killed and the 32 wounded.
Legal background and appeals
Hasan was court‑martialed in August 2013 and found guilty on 13 counts of premeditated murder and 32 counts of attempted premeditated murder. He received a death sentence from a unanimous military jury. Under the military justice system, death‑penalty cases are automatically appealed to the Army Court of Criminal Appeals and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces. Hasan’s appeals were denied.
Administration’s response
Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said Secretary of War Pete Hegseth recommended “death by U.S. Army firing squad for convicted terrorist Nidal Malik Hasan.” President Trump approved the recommendation, and the Secretary of the Army will set the execution date.
“Judgment day for Hasan has finally come,” Parnell added, underscoring the administration’s resolve to hold terrorists accountable.
Political support
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz praised the decision, stating that Hasan “deserved to be executed for his crimes” and noting his long‑standing effort to recognize Fort Hood victims. Cruz, along with Sen. John Cornyn and Representatives John Carter and Roger Williams, previously sponsored legislation expanding Purple Heart eligibility to Fort Hood victims, correcting the Obama administration’s earlier refusal to label the attack as terrorism.
Historical context
The last execution of a service member by the U.S. Army occurred on April 13, 1961, when Pvt. John Bennett was hanged at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, after a conviction for rape and attempted murder. Hasan’s execution will be the first in more than six decades.
Impact on victims and families
The decision brings closure to families of the 13 fallen service members and the many injured. In 2015, the Army awarded the Purple Heart and the civilian Medal for the Defense of Freedom to eligible Fort Hood victims, finally recognizing their sacrifice.
Broader significance
The administration’s action sends a clear message that violent extremism will be met with the full force of the law. It also demonstrates the Trump administration’s dedication to honoring military service members and upholding the Constitution’s protection of American lives against foreign‑inspired terrorism.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
