Pope Leo denounces death penalty as 'inadmissible' ahead of Pentagon's planned livestreamed execution

Pope Leo XIV reiterated the Catholic Church’s stance that the death penalty is inadmissible, citing its attack on human dignity. This comes as the Pentagon announced plans to livestream the execution of Nidal Malik Hasan, convicted of the Fort Hood mass shooting, a move criticized by Vatican officials and U.S. bishops as turning death into a spectacle. Several lawmakers also opposed the livestream plan, deeming it inappropriate for the United States.

• Pope Leo XIV declared the death penalty “inadmissible,” emphasizing it violates human dignity, aligning with Catholic doctrine revised under Pope Francis.
• The Pentagon has scheduled an execution by firing squad for Nidal Malik Hasan on December 3rd at Fort Hood, marking the first military execution since 1945.
• The Pentagon’s plan to livestream the execution has drawn criticism from Vatican officials, U.S. bishops, and lawmakers.
• Cardinal Pietro Parolin called the broadcast plan “truly incomprehensible” and “unacceptable to turn death into a spectacle.”
• Archbishop Paul Coakley expressed “shock” and “great sorrow,” stating the plan promotes a “culture of death.”
• President Donald Trump has not decided on the livestream plan, and Vice President JD Vance expressed skepticism.