Human Rights Organizations Decry New Record in Executions in the Kingdom

Saudi Arabia has exceeded its prior execution tally for the use of capital punishment for a second year running.

At least 347 people have been put to death so far this year, per data from a British rights monitor that records such sentences.

This figure is higher than the total of 345 noted in 2024, marking what the group calls the "bloodiest year of executions in the kingdom since tracking was initiated."

The latest individuals to be executed were two individuals from Pakistan convicted on drug-related offences.

Breakdown of the Cases

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

Five of those were female. However, as stated by the monitoring group, the vast bulk—about two-thirds—were convicted for not involving murder substance violations.

International bodies have stated that applying the capital punishment for such offences is "contrary to international law and principles."

A majority of those executed were non-Saudi citizens, caught up in what is described as a "war on drugs" within the kingdom.

"Saudi Arabia is operating with absolute immunity now," remarked a representative of the monitoring group. "It's almost ridiculing the global justice mechanism."

The advocate further characterized torture and forced confessions as "endemic" within the Saudi criminal justice system, calling it a "severe and random suppression."

Individual Cases

Among those subjected to capital punishment was a young national of Egypt, arrested in 2021. He reportedly claimed he was pressured into trafficking narcotics.

Loved ones of men on awaiting execution for drug charges have given accounts privately the "dread" they now live in.

"The single occasion of the week that I rest is on those two days because there are no death sentences carried out on those days," an individual recounted.

Other prisoners have according to accounts witnessed individuals they lived alongside for years being "dragged in protest to their death."

Political Climate

The effective leader of Saudi Arabia, whose rise began in 2017, has led major shifts in policy, easing some restrictions while at the same time silencing criticism.

Even as the country has welcomed foreign engagement in a bid to move away from oil dependency, its human rights record remains "deeply concerning" according to international observers.

"There have been no consequences for carrying out these executions," commented a analyst focusing on the region. "International gatherings continue with little backlash."

Claims suggest families of the condemned are usually given no prior notice, denied the bodies, and not told where they are interred.

Global Condemnation

A UN special rapporteur has urged an instant halt on executions in Saudi Arabia, pushing for eventual abolition.

The expert also stressed the need for "complete obedience with international safeguards," including legal assistance and diplomatic support for foreign nationals.

Notable instances have drawn focused criticism, including those of individuals who were juveniles at the time of their alleged crimes and a journalist executed on claims of disloyalty.

"Executions against journalists is a frightening blow on free speech," said a international agency head.

In a written response to raised allegations, Saudi authorities have maintained that the country "protects and upholds human rights" and that its laws "prohibit and punish torture."

The response continued that the death penalty is applied solely for the "heinous violations" and after concluding all court appeals.