Centuries ago, executions were carried out in open areas to serve as a lesson to the public. However, in modern times, they are conducted behind closed doors because the act is viewed as too gruesome. Yet, this morning, the Pentagon announced that the execution of Nidal Hasan would be livestreamed for all to watch.
Hasan was found guilty of carrying out an attack at Fort Hood, Texas, in 2009, which resulted in the deaths of 13 military personnel. A US Army Major at the time, he was convicted of a terrorist attack by a military court. The execution by firing squad is scheduled for December 3, marking the first such execution involving a US service member since 1961.
US Secretary of Defense Pete Hagseth stated that the execution would be livestreamed so the public understands there are serious consequences for crimes of this nature.
If the execution is livestreamed as planned, the US will join the ranks of Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, Iran, North Korea, Somalia, and Yemen as nations that still carry out public executions.
