President Trump has canceled the livestreaming of Malik Nidal Hasan’s execution, reversing his earlier endorsement of broadcasting the event. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had announced plans for a live feed of the U.S. military officer’s execution on December 3, but Trump overruled him on Truth Social.
Hasan, who killed 13 people and wounded 32 in an attack on November 9, 2009, will still face a firing squad as scheduled. In a recent interview with conservative commentator Jack Posobiec, Hegseth stated: “He’s gonna get a firing squad of soldiers. We’ll make sure that people are able to watch it. That it’s public. Because people need to understand that there’s serious consequences for these types of things.”
Trump initially confirmed his approval of the livestream, saying: “Absolutely I did.” However, he later reversed course after facing backlash and criticism. Federal Communications Commission chief Brendan Carr noted the FCC lacks regulatory authority over such broadcasts but expressed confidence in Hegseth’s decisions. “I trust what Secretary Hegseth said,” Carr added.
Vice President JD Vance suggested that the execution might not be livestreamed and indicated he would not watch it himself. Critics labeled the proposed broadcast a “disgusting spectacle” and former U.S. counterterrorism chief Joe Kent called it “beneath the dignity of our nation.”
Trump announced the reversal after stating that while a live stream could serve as a deterrent for potential terrorists, many individuals would prefer not to watch the execution. He emphasized: “He will die, as scheduled, by firing squad, but this event will not be streamed.” The execution may still be viewed in person by victims’ families if they choose.
A U.S. Senate report revealed that the Department of Defense had “compelling evidence” Hasan should have been removed from service due to extremist views but failed to act because of political considerations. This highlighted systemic failures in identifying and preventing radicalization within the military.
The decision drew criticism from some conservatives, including Daily Wire podcaster Matt Walsh, who called the announcement and retraction “sloppy” and “inexcusable.”