Official announcements from the Saudi government or credible international news agencies

Saudi Arabia's Executions Surge to Record High Under MBS

Dec 3, 2024, 04:12 PM

Saudi Arabia has set a new record for the number of executions carried out in a single year, with more than 300 individuals executed in 2024, according to a tally by AFP, updated following announcements from the Saudi Ministry of Interior. This surge in executions has been described as occurring at 'rocket speed' under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's (MBS) leadership. Among those executed were four people convicted of common law offenses, highlighting the broad application of capital punishment in the country. This record-breaking number of executions has drawn international attention and criticism, especially as Saudi Arabia continues to engage in high-profile international cultural and economic exchanges.