Rights Groups Decry New Record in Death Sentences in the Gulf State

Saudi Arabia has exceeded its prior execution tally for the carrying out of death sentences for a second year running.

A minimum of 347 people have been executed so far this year, according to a London-based advocacy organization that tracks such cases.

This figure tops the final count of 345 recorded in 2024, making it what the group calls the "most lethal year of executions in the kingdom since monitoring began."

The most recent individuals to be executed involved two citizens of Pakistan found guilty on drug-related offences.

Breakdown of the Cases

Others put to death comprised a reporter and two individuals who were minors at the time of their alleged acts connected to dissent.

Five of those were female prisoners. Yet, per the monitoring group, the vast bulk—approximately two-thirds—were convicted for non-lethal drug-related offences.

The United Nations have declared that applying the death penalty for such offences is "contrary to international law and principles."

Over 50% of those put to death were foreign nationals, caught up in what is described as a "war on drugs" within the kingdom.

"Saudi Arabia is operating with complete impunity now," said a head of the campaign. "It's almost ridiculing the human rights system."

The official further described torture and forced confessions as "endemic" within the Saudi criminal justice system, calling it a "brutal and arbitrary crackdown."

Human Stories

Among those put to death this week was a young fisherman from Egypt, arrested in 2021. He reportedly claimed he was coerced into smuggling drugs.

Loved ones of men on facing capital sentences for drug charges have described the "dread" they now live in.

"The only time of the week that I rest is on the weekend because there are no executions on those days," a family member said.

Fellow inmates have according to accounts seen individuals they lived alongside for years being "taken in protest to their death."

Broader Context

The effective leader of Saudi Arabia, who assumed power in 2017, has led profound social changes, loosening some restrictions while at the same time suppressing opposition.

Although the country has welcomed foreign engagement in a bid to move away from oil dependency, its human rights record remains "abysmal" according to global watchdogs.

"No price has been paid for proceeding with these executions," commented a analyst focusing on the region. "Major events continue with no repercussions."

Reports suggest families of the condemned are typically not informed in advance, not given the remains, and not told where they are interred.

Calls for Action

A global human rights official has demanded an immediate moratorium on executions in Saudi Arabia, pushing for eventual elimination.

The official also stressed the need for "complete obedience with international protections," including representation and embassy contact for foreign nationals.

Particular executions have drawn particular ire, including those of individuals who were juveniles at the time of their reported offences and a writer executed on claims of disloyalty.

"The death penalty against members of the press is a frightening blow on freedom of expression," stated a senior UN cultural official.

In a official communication to UN concerns, Saudi authorities have maintained that the country "protects and upholds human rights" and that its laws "outlaw and sanction torture."

The communication further stated that the death penalty is imposed only for the "most serious crimes" and after completing all judicial proceedings.