Advocacy Organizations Denounce New Record in Executions in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has broken its own annual record for the use of capital punishment for a second straight year.

A minimum of 347 individuals have been executed so far this year, according to a UK-based rights monitor that tracks such proceedings.

This figure is higher than the final count of 345 recorded in 2024, making it what the group calls the "bloodiest year of executions in the kingdom since records started."

The newest cases carried out involved two individuals from Pakistan sentenced on drug-related offences.

Analysis of the Executions

Further cases this year include a media professional and two young men who were minors at the time of their alleged offences linked to demonstrations.

Five were female prisoners. However, as stated by the monitoring group, the vast bulk—approximately two-thirds—were found guilty for non-lethal narcotics charges.

International bodies have said that applying the ultimate sentence for such violations is "incompatible with international norms and standards."

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

"The kingdom is functioning with complete impunity now," said a representative of the monitoring group. "It's almost making a mockery of the human rights system."

The official further characterized coerced admissions and abuse as "endemic" within the Saudi judicial process, calling it a "severe and random suppression."

Personal Accounts

Among those put to death this week was a young Egyptian fisherman, arrested in 2021. He allegedly claimed he was pressured into smuggling drugs.

Family members of men on awaiting execution for drug charges have given accounts privately the "fear" they now live in.

"The sole period of the week that I find peace is on the weekend because there are a halt in proceedings on those days," a family member said.

Cellmates have allegedly observed individuals they lived alongside for years being "taken resisting violently to their death."

Broader Context

The paramount authority of Saudi Arabia, who became crown prince in 2017, has presided over significant societal reforms, relaxing some restrictions while simultaneously cracking down on dissent.

Although the country has welcomed foreign engagement in a bid to broaden its financial base, its human rights record remains "deeply concerning" according to global watchdogs.

"There have been no consequences for going ahead with these executions," said a expert focusing on the region. "International gatherings continue with little backlash."

Allegations suggest families of the deceased are typically given no prior notice, refused custody, and left unaware of burial sites.

Global Condemnation

A global human rights official has demanded an prompt suspension on executions in Saudi Arabia, advocating for eventual elimination.

The official also stressed the need for "full compliance with international safeguards," including legal assistance and embassy contact for foreign nationals.

Specific cases have drawn special condemnation, including those of individuals who were minors at the time of their alleged crimes and a journalist executed on claims of disloyalty.

"The death penalty against media workers is a chilling attack on press freedom," declared a leading UNESCO figure.

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

The letter added that the death penalty is applied solely for the "most serious crimes" and after exhausting all judicial proceedings.