Saudi Arabia has exceeded its own annual record for the number of executions for a second straight year.
At least 347 persons have been executed so far this year, according to a UK-based campaign group that monitors such sentences.
This figure is higher than the total of 345 documented in 2024, marking what the group calls the "bloodiest year of executions in the kingdom since monitoring began."
The latest cases carried out were two Pakistani nationals sentenced on illegal substance violations.
Analysis of the Sentences
Others put to death comprised a journalist and two individuals who were minors at the time of their alleged protest-related crimes.
A total of five were women. But, according to the monitoring group, the largest portion—around two-thirds—were found guilty for non-violent narcotics charges.
International bodies have declared that applying the death penalty for such offences is "violates international law and principles."
A majority of those subjected to capital punishment were individuals from other countries, ensnared in what appears to be a "campaign against narcotics" within the kingdom.
"Saudi Arabia is operating with total disregard now," stated a representative of the rights organization. "It's almost flouting the international rights framework."
The official further described torture and forced confessions as "endemic" within the Saudi criminal justice system, calling it a "harsh and indiscriminate campaign."
Personal Accounts
Among those subjected to capital punishment was a young fisherman from Egypt, detained in 2021. He reportedly 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 single occasion of the week that I find peace is on Friday and Saturday because there are a halt in proceedings on those days," an individual recounted.
Other prisoners have allegedly observed individuals they lived alongside for years being "dragged resisting violently to their death."
Broader Context
The effective leader of Saudi Arabia, whose rise began in 2017, has presided over profound social changes, easing some limitations while at the same time suppressing opposition.
While the country has welcomed foreign engagement in a bid to broaden its financial base, its human rights record remains "abysmal" according to global watchdogs.
"No price has been paid for going ahead with these executions," said a researcher focusing on the region. "High-profile activities continue with no repercussions."
Allegations suggest families of the condemned are often not informed in advance, refused custody, and not informed about the location of graves.
Global Condemnation
A United Nations expert has urged an immediate moratorium on executions in Saudi Arabia, with the aim of eventual elimination.
The rapporteur also stressed the need for "complete obedience with international protections," including access to lawyers and diplomatic support for detainees from abroad.
Notable instances have drawn particular ire, including those of individuals who were juveniles at the time of their charged acts and a journalist executed on national security allegations.
"The death penalty against journalists is a frightening blow on free speech," stated a international agency head.
In a formal letter to raised allegations, Saudi authorities have maintained that the country "defends and maintains human rights" and that its laws "ban and penalize torture."
The response added that the capital punishment is imposed only for the "heinous violations" and after exhausting all legal processes.
