Advocacy Organizations Denounce New Record in Death Sentences in the Kingdom

The Kingdom has broken its prior execution tally for the number of executions for a second straight year.

No fewer than 347 people have been executed so far this year, as reported by a British rights monitor that monitors such cases.

This figure exceeds the total of 345 noted in 2024, representing what the group calls the "most lethal year of executions in the kingdom since records started."

The newest individuals to be executed involved two individuals from Pakistan found guilty on illegal substance violations.

Breakdown of the Sentences

Additional individuals executed comprised a reporter and two youths who were underage at the time of their reported offences linked to demonstrations.

A total of five were female prisoners. However, as stated by the monitoring group, the majority—about two-thirds—were convicted for not involving murder drug-related offences.

International bodies have stated that applying the death penalty for such violations is "contrary to international law and principles."

Over 50% of those executed were individuals from other countries, caught up in what appears to be a "war on drugs" within the kingdom.

"Saudi Arabia is operating with complete impunity now," said a representative of the rights organization. "It's almost making a mockery of the global justice mechanism."

The advocate further described coerced admissions and abuse as "widespread" within the Saudi legal framework, 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 forced into carrying illegal substances.

Relatives of men on death row for drug charges have described the "terror" they now live in.

"The sole period of the week that I rest is on Friday and Saturday because there are no death sentences carried out on those days," an individual recounted.

Other prisoners have allegedly seen individuals they lived alongside for years being "led resisting violently to their death."

Broader Context

The effective leader of Saudi Arabia, who assumed power in 2017, has presided over significant societal reforms, relaxing some rules while simultaneously suppressing opposition.

While the country has opened up in a bid to diversify its economy, its human rights record remains "deeply concerning" according to international observers.

"There's been no cost for carrying out these executions," commented a expert focusing on the region. "High-profile activities continue with little backlash."

Claims suggest families of the condemned are typically given no prior notice, refused custody, and left unaware of the location of graves.

International Response

A United Nations expert has urged an immediate moratorium on executions in Saudi Arabia, advocating for eventual abolition.

The official also stressed the need for "strict adherence with international standards," including legal assistance and embassy contact for detainees from abroad.

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

"The death penalty against media workers is a frightening blow on free speech," declared a leading UNESCO figure.

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

The communication further stated that the ultimate sentence is applied solely for the "gravest offences" and after completing all court appeals.