Human Rights Organizations Decry Historic Peak in Death Sentences in the Gulf State

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

At least 347 people have been subjected to capital punishment so far this year, according to a UK-based campaign group that monitors such proceedings.

This figure exceeds the total 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 were two individuals from Pakistan sentenced on drug-related offences.

Analysis of the Cases

Additional individuals executed include a journalist and two youths who were underage at the time of their claimed protest-related crimes.

Five of those were female. However, per the monitoring group, the vast bulk—approximately two-thirds—were sentenced for not involving murder narcotics charges.

Global organizations have stated that applying the ultimate sentence for such crimes is "violates international norms and standards."

More than half of those put to death were foreign nationals, caught up in what has been labeled a "war on drugs" within the kingdom.

"Saudi Arabia is operating with absolute immunity now," stated a head of the monitoring group. "It's almost ridiculing the international rights framework."

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

Personal Accounts

Among those put to death this week was a young national of Egypt, taken into custody in 2021. He allegedly claimed he was pressured into trafficking narcotics.

Family members of men on death row for drug charges have given accounts privately the "dread" they now live in.

"The only time of the week that I rest is on those two days because there are a halt in proceedings on those days," an individual recounted.

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

Broader Context

The de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia, who assumed power in 2017, has led significant societal reforms, loosening some limitations while simultaneously silencing criticism.

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

"No price has been paid for carrying out these executions," noted a expert focusing on the region. "High-profile activities continue with minimal fallout."

Claims suggest families of the deceased are often not informed in advance, not given the remains, and left unaware of the location of graves.

Global Condemnation

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

The rapporteur also stressed the need for "strict adherence with international safeguards," including representation and diplomatic support for non-citizens.

Notable instances have drawn focused criticism, including those of individuals who were juveniles at the time of their alleged crimes and a writer executed on terrorism and treason charges.

"Executions against journalists is a frightening blow on free speech," said a international agency head.

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

The response further stated that the death penalty is imposed only for the "gravest offences" and after exhausting all judicial proceedings.