Saudi Arabia Executes 17 in 3 days, Sparking International Concern
Saudi Arabia executes 17 in 3 days, marking one of the kingdom’s most intense execution waves in recent years. The executions, which occurred between July 28 and 30, were mainly for drug-related offences.
This brings the total number of executions in the country this year to at least 100, placing Saudi Arabia on a trajectory to exceed its previous annual totals.
Most Executions Linked to Drug Crimes
The majority of those executed were convicted of non-violent drug offences, including the trafficking of substances such as hashish and amphetamines. Authorities stated that the executions were carried out in line with Saudi law to deter crime and uphold national security.
Despite this, human rights groups have condemned the executions, arguing that the death penalty for non-violent drug crimes violates international legal standards. Many nations have abolished capital punishment for similar offences.
Kingdom’s Death Penalty Under Renewed Scrutiny
The fact that Saudi Arabia executes 17 in 3 days has drawn global criticism. In a previous year, the country executed nearly 200 people — one of the highest recorded death tolls worldwide. Although there had been a slowdown in executions, the recent surge suggests a reversal of that trend.
The renewed use of the death penalty, particularly for drug-related crimes, has intensified calls for reform and international accountability.
Rights Advocates Call for Moratorium
Human rights organisations continue to push for a moratorium on executions for drug offences. They argue that the practice undermines progress and contradicts global human rights norms. Concerns have also been raised about due process and transparency in the judicial system.
As global attention increases, Saudi Arabia faces mounting pressure to align its justice system with evolving international standards and to reconsider its stance on capital punishment.
