The US Justice Department announced the reinstatement of the firing squad as a method of execution, marking a notable shift in federal death penalty policy. This decision comes as lethal injection faces increasing legal and logistical challenges, including drug shortages and ethical concerns surrounding its administration. While the department did not specify how often the firing squad would be used, officials indicated that it aims to ensure lawful sentences are carried out without delays. Historically, firing squads have been less common, with only a few states retaining the option primarily as a backup. Proponents argue that this method is more reliable and could lead to quicker deaths compared to problematic lethal injections. Conversely, critics, including civil rights groups, argue that this move highlights deeper issues with capital punishment and advocate for a reconsideration of its use. The decision is expected to face immediate legal challenges regarding its compliance with constitutional protections against cruel and unusual punishment, reflecting the ongoing divisive nature of capital punishment in the United States.