Australian Politician Joins Greens in Opposing US Execution Livestream

One Nation MP Barnaby Joyce has aligned with the Greens in opposing the U.S. military's plan to livestream the execution of Nidal Malik Hasan, a former Army psychiatrist convicted of killing 13 people and injuring 32 in a 2009 shooting rampage at Fort Hood, Texas. Joyce described the decision as "a blood-soaked spectacle out of ancient Rome," stating, "This is Roman amphitheatre stuff, no, I don't agree with it." He added that he did not want children or anyone to witness an execution by firing squad, an act Australia does not permit.

Greens communications spokeswoman Sarah Hanson-Young had previously written to eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant requesting that access to the livestream be blocked in Australia. She argued that inaction would "jeopardise millions of Australians' online safety and expose both adults and children to this harmful content."

Joyce's stance contrasts with that of some of his former Coalition colleagues. Opposition Leader Angus Taylor declined to comment directly, deferring to the U.S. as the responsible party. Shadow Treasurer Tim Wilson expressed concern over censorship, while acknowledging the problematic nature of violent content, suggesting a difficult balance between protection and freedom of expression.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the execution is scheduled for December 3 and that the public will be able to watch. This would mark the first U.S. military execution in 65 years and, if broadcast, the first time a lawful execution has been publicly streamed in the United States. Hegseth defended the livestream, emphasizing the importance of understanding the consequences of serious crimes. Hasan is slated to be executed by firing squad, reportedly while in a wheelchair, having been partially paralyzed after being shot during his arrest.

Vice President JD Vance stated he would not watch the execution, though he did not directly criticize the decision to stream it. Vance reminded reporters that Hasan was responsible for the brutal murder of many innocent people.