continues Masam Project its tireless efforts to clear Yemeni lands of the threat of landmines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) that endanger civilian lives. In a new humanitarian achievement, the project successfully removed 2,285 landmines and unexploded ordnance in various Yemeni governorates during the second week of May, bringing the total number of mines removed since the project's inception to over 561,140.
The historical context of the landmine crisis in Yemen
The landmine crisis in Yemen has its roots in the escalation of armed conflict since late 2014, which has seen the indiscriminate and widespread planting of hundreds of thousands of landmines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in villages, farms, roads, and schools. Yemen is now one of the most heavily mined countries in the world since World War II. These practices, which violate international laws and conventions, particularly the Ottawa Treaty banning anti-personnel mines, have resulted in thousands of innocent victims, mostly women, children, and the elderly, and have hindered the delivery of humanitarian aid and the return of displaced persons to their homes.
Details of recent demining operations
According to the latest report, the mines and munitions removed in a single week included 172 anti-tank mines, 145 anti-personnel mines, 1,964 pieces of unexploded ordnance, and 4 improvised explosive devices. The field operations covered several key Yemeni governorates, with the achievements distributed as follows:
- Aden Governorate: The “Masam” team managed to remove 608 unexploded ordnance.
- Hadhramaut Governorate: In Al-Mukalla District, 139 anti-personnel mines, 7 anti-tank mines, and 1,159 unexploded ordnance were removed.
- Hajjah Governorate: Midi District witnessed the removal of two anti-personnel mines, 161 anti-tank mines, and 154 unexploded ordnance.
- Taiz Governorate: Operations varied in the districts of Dhubab, Al-Qahirah, and Salah, and resulted in the removal of 3 anti-personnel mines, 2 anti-tank mines, and 41 unexploded ordnance.
- Hodeidah, Al Dhale’e and Shabwa governorates: The operations included the removal of anti-personnel and anti-tank mines and unexploded ordnance in the districts of Hays, Al Khokha, Qa’tabah and Asilan, which witnessed the removal of 4 improvised explosive devices.
The strategic and humanitarian importance of the Masam project
The importance of the Masam project extends beyond mere statistics, encompassing a profound impact at the local, regional, and international levels. Locally, land clearance contributes to saving civilian lives, restoring livelihoods by reopening agricultural lands, and securing roads to ensure the delivery of aid and the safe return of displaced persons.
At the regional and international levels, securing coastal governorates like Hodeidah and Hajjah directly contributes to enhancing maritime security in the Red Sea and reduces risks to global trade. This project also reflects the commitment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, through its humanitarian arm, the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre, to supporting the stability of Yemen and enabling its people to live in a safe and dignified environment, free from the threat of violence.
Thus, the number of mines removed since the beginning of May has risen to 3,124, as the project continues its noble humanitarian mission to address one of the worst man-made humanitarian disasters of the modern era.
