Donald Trump approved the use of a firing squad for a military execution at Fort Hood

President Donald Trump approved the use of a firing squad for a military execution at Fort Hood, following a recommendation from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, according to a statement released by Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell. The announcement marks an exceptionally rare move—such executions have not been carried out at U.S. military bases for decades.

The Pentagon did not provide details about the timing or the individual involved, but confirmed Trump had formally signed off on the order this week. The decision comes amid ongoing debate over military justice reforms and the use of capital punishment within the armed forces.

Legal analysts note that the firing squad method has been largely abandoned since the mid-20th century, with the last known case in the U.S. military occurring in 1961. The decision underscores deep divides over criminal justice and execution protocols under the Trump administration.