Leading Democrats voiced horror and called for a rethink of the US alliance with Saudi Arabia after mass executions, while President Donald Trump's administration expressed only indirect concern.
Saudi Arabia on Tuesday beheaded 37 citizens, nearly all from its Shiite minority, with one crucified after death and the UN saying that at least three were minors when charged.
Senator Bernie Sanders, who is seeking the Democratic nomination for president, said the mass execution "underscores how urgent it has become for the United States to redefine our relationship with the despotic regime in Saudi Arabia."