Saudi Arabia Escalates Repression: Executions on Dubious Charges Amid Criticism Over Justice and Human Rights

Saudi authorities have executed Ali bin Abdullah bin Saleh Al-Sai’ari and Abdulaziz bin Ahmed bin Maslah Al-Amri on charges of treason and collaboration with terrorist entities, according to a statement by the Ministry of Interior. While the authorities claim these charges threaten national security, Saudi trials are often marked by a lack of transparency and fair legal proceedings. Defendants are frequently denied their rights to proper defense, subjected to unfair legal procedures, and faced with fabricated charges aimed at silencing dissent and opposition.

In its repressive practices, Saudi Arabia increasingly targets individuals for their social media activity and peaceful expression. The authorities classify any criticism or dissent as terrorism warranting the death penalty. Notable cases include Dhafir Al-Shahri, who was executed over a tweet, alongside many other prisoners of conscience now facing the threat of execution. High-profile figures such as Dr. Salman Al-Ouda and Awad Al-Qarni are among those at risk. These harsh sentences are part of a broader campaign to stifle free expression and suppress peaceful opposition.

Sanad Human Rights Organization urges human rights organizations and the international community to pressure Saudi authorities to halt this bloodshed and stop these unjust sentences targeting individuals solely for exercising their right to free expression. Saudi Arabia’s continued actions constitute flagrant violations of human rights and freedom of speech, drawing widespread condemnation from the international community.