The key facts

  • Trump canceled the broadcast of the execution, but the sentence stands — execution is set for December 3
  • In 2009, Hasan shot fellow soldiers at Fort Hood, killing 13 and injuring more than 30
  • 72 retired generals and admirals urged the cancellation of the public execution

Trump Cancels Broadcast of Execution

U.S. President Donald Trump has canceled the broadcast of the execution of former U.S. Army major Nidal Hasan. The execution process itself will not be shown live, but the sentence remains in effect — Hasan's execution is scheduled for December 3.

President's Statement

On the social network Truth Social, Trump wrote that, in his view, broadcasting the execution could have served as a 'powerful example' to the world, showing what awaits terrorists like Hasan, but many good people would prefer not to watch his death. The President also added that, if they wish, close relatives of the victims will be able to attend the execution in person: 'They have the right to witness the administration of justice!'

Circumstances of the Case

In November 2009, Nidal Hasan opened fire on fellow soldiers at the medical center on Fort Hood base. Thirteen people were killed, and more than 30 were injured. Refusing legal representation, Hasan explained his actions as a desire to protect Muslims and the Taliban in Afghanistan. In 2013, a military tribunal sentenced him to death.

Position of Retired Military Leaders

72 retired American generals, admirals, and other high-ranking military officials previously called for the cancellation of the public execution. In their open letter, they stated that publicly displaying the execution 'degrades human dignity and disgraces the honor of the armed forces,' and could also turn Hasan into a martyr.