Rights Groups Condemn Unprecedented High in Executions in Saudi Arabia

The nation has broken its own annual record for the carrying out of death sentences for a second straight year.

At least 347 individuals have been executed so far this year, as reported by a British rights monitor that records such cases.

This figure is higher than the number of 345 documented in 2024, making it what the group calls the "bloodiest year of executions in the kingdom since tracking was initiated."

The newest people put to death were two Pakistani nationals sentenced on illegal substance violations.

Details on the Sentences

Additional individuals executed comprised a journalist and two individuals who were minors at the time of their claimed protest-related crimes.

Five were women. But, according to the monitoring group, the largest portion—about two-thirds—were convicted for non-violent narcotics charges.

The United Nations have declared that applying the ultimate sentence for such violations is "contrary to international norms and standards."

A majority of those subjected to capital punishment were foreign nationals, ensnared in what is described as a "crackdown on substances" within the kingdom.

"The kingdom is functioning with total disregard now," said a head of the rights organization. "It's almost making a mockery of the human rights system."

The advocate further characterized coerced admissions and abuse as "widespread" within the Saudi criminal justice system, calling it a "severe and random suppression."

Personal Accounts

Among those subjected to capital punishment was a young national of Egypt, arrested in 2021. He is said to have claimed he was pressured into carrying illegal substances.

Relatives of men on awaiting execution for drug charges have described the "dread" they now live in.

"The single occasion of the week that I find peace is on Friday and Saturday because there are no death sentences carried out on those days," a family member said.

Cellmates have according to accounts witnessed individuals they lived alongside for years being "led kicking and screaming to their death."

Broader Context

The effective leader of Saudi Arabia, who assumed power in 2017, has led significant societal reforms, loosening some limitations while simultaneously suppressing opposition.

While the country has become more accessible in a bid to diversify its economy, its human rights record remains "abysmal" according to rights groups.

"No price has been paid for proceeding with these executions," commented a analyst focusing on the region. "High-profile activities continue with little backlash."

Allegations suggest families of the deceased are typically given no prior notice, not given the remains, and not informed about burial sites.

Global Condemnation

A global human rights official has urged an prompt suspension on executions in Saudi Arabia, pushing for eventual abolition.

The official also stressed the need for "complete obedience with international safeguards," including legal assistance and diplomatic support for non-citizens.

Specific cases have drawn particular ire, including those of individuals who were juveniles at the time of their charged acts and a reporter executed on terrorism and treason charges.

"Capital punishment against journalists is a chilling attack on press freedom," said a senior UN cultural official.

In a official communication to raised allegations, Saudi authorities have maintained that the country "safeguards human rights" and that its laws "outlaw and sanction torture."

The letter added that the capital punishment is used exclusively for the "most serious crimes" and after exhausting all court appeals.