Rights groups condemn new record number of executions in Saudi Arabia

Rights groups are criticizing Saudi Arabia for surpassing its record number of executions for the second consecutive year with at least 347 people put to death, including individuals convicted of drug-related offenses, protest-related crimes, and journalists. The executions have raised concerns about human rights abuses, with most individuals facing non-lethal charges, according to Reprieve. Despite recent social reforms in the kingdom, the Saudi authorities have faced criticism for their "abysmal" human rights record, with calls for an immediate moratorium on executions and compliance with international standards.