Human Rights Organizations Decry Unprecedented High in Executions in the Gulf State

The nation has surpassed its prior execution tally for the use of capital punishment for a second consecutive year.

At least 347 persons have been executed so far this year, according to a UK-based campaign group that monitors such cases.

This figure exceeds the number of 345 recorded in 2024, representing what the group calls the "bloodiest year of executions in the kingdom since tracking was initiated."

The most recent people put to death were two Pakistani nationals convicted on charges related to narcotics.

Breakdown of the Executions

Further cases this year include a journalist and two youths who were children at the time of their alleged acts connected to dissent.

Five were women. However, as stated by the monitoring group, the vast bulk—approximately two-thirds—were sentenced for not involving murder substance violations.

Global organizations have said that applying the capital punishment for such crimes is "incompatible with international law and principles."

More than half of those subjected to capital punishment were individuals from other countries, ensnared in what appears to be a "campaign against narcotics" within the kingdom.

"The kingdom is functioning with complete impunity now," said a official of the rights organization. "It's almost making a mockery of the international rights framework."

The official further labeled extracted statements through mistreatment as "endemic" within the Saudi criminal justice system, calling it a "brutal and arbitrary crackdown."

Human Stories

Among those put to death this week was a young national of Egypt, taken into custody in 2021. He is said to have claimed he was pressured into smuggling drugs.

Family members of men on facing capital sentences for drug charges have given accounts privately the "terror" they now live in.

"The only time of the week that I find peace is on Friday and Saturday because there are a halt in proceedings on those days," one relative stated.

Cellmates have reportedly witnessed individuals they lived alongside for years being "dragged kicking and screaming to their death."

Political Climate

The de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia, who assumed power in 2017, has overseen profound social changes, easing some rules while simultaneously suppressing opposition.

Although the country has opened up in a bid to move away from oil dependency, its human rights record remains "deeply concerning" according to global watchdogs.

"There's been no cost for going ahead with these executions," said a analyst focusing on the region. "Major events continue with little backlash."

Allegations suggest families of the condemned are often left in the dark, refused custody, and left unaware of where they are interred.

International Response

A United Nations expert has called for an instant halt on executions in Saudi Arabia, pushing for eventual elimination.

The rapporteur also stressed the need for "full compliance with international standards," including access to lawyers and embassy contact for detainees from abroad.

Particular executions have drawn focused criticism, including those of individuals who were under the age of majority at the time of their charged acts and a reporter executed on terrorism and treason charges.

"Capital punishment against journalists is a chilling attack on press freedom," declared a senior UN cultural official.

In a written response to UN concerns, Saudi authorities have asserted that the country "defends and maintains human rights" and that its laws "prohibit and punish torture."

The response further stated that the ultimate sentence is applied solely for the "most serious crimes" and after completing all judicial proceedings.