Human Rights Organizations Condemn Historic Peak in Death Sentences in the Kingdom

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

At least 347 individuals have been subjected to capital punishment so far this year, per data from a UK-based rights monitor that monitors such sentences.

This figure exceeds the total of 345 recorded in 2024, representing what the group calls the "most lethal year of executions in the kingdom since records started."

The most recent people put to death involved two individuals from Pakistan found guilty on drug-related offences.

Breakdown of the Executions

Additional individuals executed include a reporter and two youths who were children at the time of their alleged protest-related crimes.

Five were female prisoners. However, according to the monitoring group, the vast bulk—approximately two-thirds—were convicted for non-violent narcotics charges.

International bodies have said that applying the ultimate sentence for such violations is "incompatible with international norms and standards."

More than half of those subjected to capital punishment were individuals from other countries, caught up in what is described as a "campaign against narcotics" within the kingdom.

"The authorities are acting with absolute immunity now," said a official of the campaign. "It's almost ridiculing the global justice mechanism."

The representative further characterized torture and forced confessions as "systemic" within the Saudi legal framework, calling it a "severe and random suppression."

Personal Accounts

Among those executed recently was a young fisherman from Egypt, taken into custody in 2021. He is said to have claimed he was forced into smuggling drugs.

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

"The sole period 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 "taken resisting violently to their death."

Political Climate

The de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia, who became crown prince in 2017, has overseen profound social changes, easing some restrictions while concurrently suppressing opposition.

Although the country has become more accessible in a bid to move away from oil dependency, its human rights record remains "abysmal" 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 little backlash."

Reports suggest families of the deceased are usually left in the dark, denied the bodies, and not informed about burial sites.

Calls for Action

A global human rights official has called for an immediate moratorium on executions in Saudi Arabia, advocating for eventual abolition.

The official also stressed the need for "full compliance with international protections," including representation and diplomatic support for foreign nationals.

Notable instances have drawn particular ire, including those of individuals who were minors at the time of their reported offences and a writer executed on claims of disloyalty.

"The death penalty against media workers is a deeply concerning assault on free speech," said a leading UNESCO figure.

In a official communication to international queries, Saudi authorities have maintained that the country "defends and maintains human rights" and that its laws "outlaw and sanction torture."

The communication further stated that the ultimate sentence is used exclusively for the "heinous violations" and after concluding all court appeals.