Sir,– In the aftermath of state-directed mass executions, Saudi Arabia has declared that it will not tolerate “extremism and deviant ideologies”. Meanwhile a man found guilty of participation in pro-democracy demonstrations at the age of 17 during the Arab Spring awaits ratification by King Salman of the death sentence to be carried out by beheading followed by crucifixion (in that order). Is there no limit to the hypocrisy of that country? – Yours, etc,
Dr JOHN GIBBONS,
Castlebar,
Co Mayo.
Sir, – That Saudi Arabia chairs the United Nations Human Rights Council is a moral obscenity that fully confirms the unholy mess we are in. It achieved this position with the help of the votes of the United States and the United Kingdom. Once again, petro-dollars and cynical politics hold sway over human rights. – Yours, etc,
DENIS MORTELL,
Clonskeagh,
Dublin 14.
Sir, – The news that Saudi Arabia has rung in the new year with 47 executions is disturbing, especially as the Saudi justice system is less than transparent. Isn’t it time for the West to review its relationship with Saudi Arabia, regardless of whatever dependence we may have on its oil? – Yours, etc,
GARRY BURY,
Dalkey, Co Dublin.