Saudi Arabia Executes Record 356 in 2025 Amid Drug Crackdown, Sparks Global Outcry

• Saudi Arabia executed a record 356 people in 2025, the highest number in its history and since 1990, according to AFP.
• A staggering 243 of these executions were for drug-related crimes, highlighting a severe crackdown on narcotics.
• The government resumed drug offense death sentences in late 2022, targeting 'Captagon' pills smuggled from Syria.
• Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's 'Vision 2030' modernization efforts are overshadowed by human rights concerns from organizations like Amnesty International and the UN.
• Saudi officials defend the executions as necessary for public safety and law and order, despite international criticism.

Why It Matters: Saudi Arabia set a grim record with 356 executions in 2025, primarily for drug offenses, drawing global criticism.