Activists claim Saudi journalist was killed over X account

Turki al-Jasser, a Saudi journalist who exposed corruption and advocated for women’s rights, was executed on June 14th after Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court upheld his death sentence, Middle East Eye reported.

Campaigners believe he was targeted for allegedly managing an X account that revealed misconduct by powerful figures, including members of the Kingdom’s royal family.

Saudi authorities had arrested al-Jasser in 2018 after raiding his home and seizing his electronic devices. He was consequently convicted of terrorism and treason.

Supporters of al-Jasser said the execution sent a clear message that criticism of the Saudi leadership carries severe consequences. They drew comparisons between his death and the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

Human rights groups noted that Saudi Arabia increasingly uses executions to silence dissent. The killing of al-Jasser has added to concerns over the growing crackdown on free speech and the press in the kingdom.

Following the human rights crisis in Saudi Arabia, particularly women’s rights, The Guardian reported on May 28th and Maghrebi cited that the country goes beyond enforcing traditional gender roles.

Saudi Arabia presents itself as a supporter of gender equality, yet women continue to face oppression for “disobedience.” Women are put in so-called care homes, known as Dar al-Reaya, for being “disobedient.” These facilities hold those accused of defying male guardians, engaging in extramarital relations, or leaving home without permission. Former detainees describe abusive conditions, including floggings.

Women often remain confined for years without contact with the outside world, awaiting approval from a male guardian for release.

Middle East Eye, The Guardian, Maghrebi.org