Saudi Arabia’s Highest Number of Executions in Over Three Decades Sparks Concern
Saudi Arabia has carried out its highest number of executions in over three decades, with the number reaching 198 in 2024, according to an AFP tally. The Gulf monarchy has been among the world’s top executioners for several years, and the latest figure surpasses its previous highs.
In 2023, Saudi Arabia executed the third-highest number of prisoners globally, behind only China and Iran, according to Amnesty International. The rights group began recording annual data in 1990, and Saudi Arabia’s executions have continued to rise. In 2022, the number of executions stood at 196, and in 1995, it was 192.
The sudden surge in executions has sparked concerns about human rights violations in the kingdom. While the Saudi government has maintained that the death penalty is necessary to maintain public safety and order, critics argue that it is a brutal and inhumane punishment that is often used as a tool for political oppression.
The world is closely watching Saudi Arabia’s execution numbers, which have seen a significant increase in recent years. Human rights activists are calling on the international community to hold the country accountable for its human rights record and to work towards abolishing the death penalty.
As the world waits to see how the situation unfolds, it is essential to acknowledge the gravity of the situation and the concerns it raises about human rights and justice in Saudi Arabia.
