‘Highest in years’ | Executions in Saudi Arabia and US hit highest number on record in 2025

Saudi Arabia had resumed executions for drug offences at the end of 2022 after a pause of about three years. Many of those put to death in such cases were foreign nationals. Rights organisations have continued to criticise the scale of executions in the kingdom, saying it conflicts with its effort to project a modern global image.

Saudi authorities say the death penalty is used only after appeals have been completed and is needed to maintain public order.

In the United States, executions reached their highest level since 2009, with 47 men put to death during 2025. The increase followed renewed political backing for capital punishment, along with fewer last-minute court interventions. The Death Penalty Information Center said the trend showed “the growing disconnect between what elected officials do and what the public wants”.

The surge came despite opinion polling showing a long-term decline in public support for executions. Some US states widened the use of new or controversial execution methods, including nitrogen gas and firing squads. Florida recorded the largest rise, carrying out 19 executions in the year.

Legal experts quoted in the report said the higher number of executions reflected a shift in policy and reduced oversight from federal courts. One academic described the current system as operating “without a safety net”.

Both countries were highlighted in ongoing debates about the future of capital punishment, its fairness, and its place in modern justice systems.

(With inputs from The Guardian)