Saudi Arabia has executed two military personnel, a pilot and a sergeant major, who were found guilty of treason and other unspecified charges by the Saudi Defence Ministry.
The individuals had been arrested in 2017 and admitted to the charges following a thorough judicial process, according to the state news agency.
While the exact nature of their crimes was not detailed in the report, it’s important to note that in 2017, Saudi Arabia was actively involved in military operations in Yemen, leading a coalition against the Iran-backed Houthi group since 2015.
Also Read: Saudi Border Guards Have Killed Hundreds of Migrants
Although major battles in Yemen have decreased, the conflict continues to have severe humanitarian consequences, with many Yemenis facing starvation and disease.
This is not the first time Saudi Arabia has executed military personnel on charges of “high treason.” In a similar case last year, three soldiers were executed for reportedly collaborating with enemies.
Saudi Arabia’s frequent use of the death penalty has drawn international concern, with organizations like Amnesty International calling for the country to reconsider its capital punishment practices. Concerns have been raised about potential torture and the fairness of trials.
According to recent statistics from Amnesty International, Saudi Arabia has executed 100 individuals this year and 196 in 2022, marking the highest execution rate in three decades.
