Rights Groups Denounce Historic Peak in Death Sentences in the Gulf State

Saudi Arabia has broken its previous yearly high for the carrying out of death sentences for a second straight year.

A minimum of 347 persons have been subjected to capital punishment so far this year, according to a British advocacy organization that monitors such sentences.

This figure tops the total of 345 documented in 2024, making it what the group calls the "deadliest year of executions in the kingdom since tracking was initiated."

The newest cases carried out included two citizens of Pakistan sentenced on illegal substance violations.

Breakdown of the Executions

Others put to death include 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—around two-thirds—were found guilty for not involving murder narcotics charges.

Global organizations have declared that applying the ultimate sentence for such crimes is "violates international law and principles."

Over 50% of those executed were foreign nationals, caught up in what has been labeled a "war on drugs" within the kingdom.

"Saudi Arabia is operating with total disregard now," remarked a representative of the monitoring group. "It's almost flouting the human rights system."

The advocate further described torture and forced confessions as "widespread" within the Saudi judicial process, calling it a "brutal and arbitrary crackdown."

Individual Cases

Among those executed recently was a young Egyptian fisherman, detained in 2021. He allegedly claimed he was forced into trafficking narcotics.

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

"The only time of the week that I sleep is on Friday and Saturday because there are no executions on those days," an individual recounted.

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

Political Climate

The de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia, who assumed power in 2017, has presided over major shifts in policy, loosening some restrictions while concurrently cracking down on dissent.

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

"There's been no cost for proceeding with these executions," said a researcher focusing on the region. "High-profile activities continue with minimal fallout."

Allegations suggest families of the deceased are typically left in the dark, not given the remains, and left unaware of where they are interred.

International Response

A United Nations expert has called for an prompt suspension on executions in Saudi Arabia, pushing for eventual abolition.

The official also stressed the need for "full compliance with international protections," including legal assistance and consular access for detainees from abroad.

Specific cases 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.

"The death penalty against media workers is a deeply concerning assault on freedom of expression," stated a international agency head.

In a formal letter to raised allegations, Saudi authorities have maintained that the country "safeguards human rights" and that its laws "ban and penalize torture."

The response continued that the capital punishment is used exclusively for the "gravest offences" and after completing all judicial proceedings.