Rights Groups Condemn New Record in Capital Punishment in Saudi Arabia

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

A minimum of 347 people have been subjected to capital punishment so far this year, according to a London-based rights monitor that tracks such proceedings.

This figure tops the number of 345 recorded in 2024, representing what the group calls the "deadliest year of executions in the kingdom since records started."

The latest cases carried out involved two Pakistani nationals convicted on charges related to narcotics.

Analysis of the Cases

Others put to death include a journalist and two youths who were underage at the time of their alleged protest-related crimes.

A total of five were female prisoners. However, according to the monitoring group, the vast bulk—around two-thirds—were convicted for non-violent drug-related offences.

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

Over 50% of those subjected to capital punishment were individuals from other countries, ensnared in what is described as a "war on drugs" within the kingdom.

"The authorities are acting with absolute immunity now," said a official of the rights organization. "It's almost ridiculing the international rights framework."

The representative further characterized coerced admissions and abuse as "systemic" within the Saudi legal framework, calling it a "severe and random suppression."

Personal Accounts

Among those subjected to capital punishment was a young Egyptian fisherman, detained in 2021. He allegedly claimed he was coerced into trafficking narcotics.

Loved ones of men on facing capital sentences for drug charges have spoken anonymously 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," an individual recounted.

Fellow inmates have according to accounts witnessed individuals they lived alongside for years being "taken kicking and screaming to their death."

Political Climate

The de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia, whose rise began in 2017, has presided over significant societal reforms, relaxing some rules while simultaneously suppressing opposition.

While the country has welcomed foreign engagement in a bid to diversify its economy, its human rights record remains "deeply concerning" according to rights groups.

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

Allegations suggest families of the deceased are typically left in the dark, not given the remains, and not told the location of graves.

Calls for Action

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

The expert also stressed the need for "strict adherence with international protections," including representation and diplomatic support for foreign nationals.

Particular executions have drawn particular ire, including those of individuals who were under the age of majority at the time of their reported offences and a writer executed on national security allegations.

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

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

The letter continued that the ultimate sentence is applied solely for the "gravest offences" and after concluding all legal processes.