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Israel Many of the studies that people use to support the benefits of marijuana didn’t come from the western world. They come from Israel, in the Middle East, where scientists are actively studying marijuana benefits and side effects. However, if someone gets caught using marijuana outside of their home or without a permit in Israel, they could face a hefty fine. And there’s currently a four-strike policy, so getting caught breaking the law a fourth time could result in a person receiving a more serious penalty. Israeli law doesn’t currently distinguish between marijuana and harder drugs when it comes to recreational use. According to the Jerusalem Post , a 2014 poll showed that around 43 percent of college-age students believed that marijuana should be decriminalized and regu- lated for recreational use. The support for legalization grows every year. But only 2 percent think that recreational marijuana should be a “free for all.”This public opinion is reflected in current law. Will it change in the near future? We’ll have to wait and see. Saudi Arabia We’ve thus far discussed some countries where marijuana usage is taken very lightly even if it’s technically illegal. Let’s look at a country that goes in the other direction. DrugAbuse.com lists Saudi Arabia as among the strictest countries in the world when it comes to penalties for drug selling and use. Marijuana and alcohol are both illegal there.

If someone is caught, they might face: • Ten years in prison • Heavy fines • 150 lashes with a whip/flog • The death penalty (for a severe offense such as drug smuggling) Other countries with severe penalties include: • North Korea • Costa Rica

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