Human Rights Organizations Condemn New Record in Executions in the Gulf State

The Kingdom has exceeded its prior execution tally for the carrying out of death sentences for a second consecutive year.

At least 347 individuals have been executed so far this year, per data from a London-based rights monitor that monitors such sentences.

This figure exceeds the final count of 345 documented in 2024, representing what the group calls the "most lethal year of executions in the kingdom since tracking was initiated."

The newest people put to death were two citizens of Pakistan convicted on drug-related offences.

Breakdown of the Executions

Additional individuals executed involved a journalist and two young men who were underage at the time of their claimed acts connected to dissent.

A total of five were female prisoners. Yet, as stated by the monitoring group, the largest portion—approximately two-thirds—were convicted for not involving murder narcotics charges.

The United Nations have said that applying the ultimate sentence for such crimes is "incompatible with international human rights standards."

A majority of those executed were foreign nationals, caught up in what is described as a "war on drugs" within the kingdom.

"The kingdom is functioning with total disregard now," stated a representative of the rights organization. "It's almost flouting the international rights framework."

The representative further described extracted statements through mistreatment as "endemic" within the Saudi criminal justice system, calling it a "harsh and indiscriminate campaign."

Human Stories

Among those executed recently was a young national of Egypt, detained in 2021. He is said to have claimed he was forced into trafficking narcotics.

Relatives 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 Friday and Saturday because there are no death sentences carried out on those days," an individual recounted.

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

Political Climate

The paramount authority of Saudi Arabia, who assumed power in 2017, has led major shifts in policy, easing some limitations while simultaneously silencing criticism.

While the country has welcomed foreign engagement in a bid to diversify its economy, its human rights record remains "abysmal" according to global watchdogs.

"There's been no cost for carrying out these executions," noted a researcher focusing on the region. "Major events continue with no repercussions."

Allegations suggest families of the deceased are often given no prior notice, refused custody, and not told burial sites.

Global Condemnation

A United Nations expert has called for an instant halt on executions in Saudi Arabia, pushing for eventual an end to the practice.

The official also stressed the need for "complete obedience with international standards," including access to lawyers and embassy contact for foreign nationals.

Particular executions have drawn particular ire, including those of individuals who were juveniles at the time of their charged acts and a writer executed on terrorism and treason charges.

"The death penalty against journalists is a frightening blow on free speech," declared a senior UN cultural official.

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

The communication added that the death penalty is applied solely for the "heinous violations" and after completing all judicial proceedings.