Project Masam removes 1,408 landmines from Yemen in one week
As part of the pioneering humanitarian efforts led by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Masam Project for clearing Yemeni lands of mines, affiliated with the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, achieved another milestone in its ongoing record of accomplishments. During the second week of April 2026, the project's engineering teams successfully removed 1,408 mines and unexploded ordnance from various regions and cities across Yemen, reflecting the project's unwavering commitment to protecting innocent lives and securing the future of generations to come.
Details of field operations for mine clearance
The total number of mines removed this week included 67 anti-tank mines, 10 anti-personnel mines, 1,329 pieces of unexploded ordnance, and two improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Field operations took place in several Yemeni governorates. In Al Hudaydah Governorate, specifically in Hays District, one piece of unexploded ordnance was removed. In Hadramawt Governorate, the team in Al Mukalla District neutralized 1,094 pieces of unexploded ordnance and two IEDs. In Hajjah Governorate, in Midi District, efforts resulted in the removal of eight anti-personnel mines, 60 anti-tank mines, and 36 pieces of unexploded ordnance. Six anti-tank mines were also removed in Al Mudharabah District of Lahj Governorate.
The engineering teams' efforts didn't stop there; they extended to Marib Governorate, where unexploded ordnance was removed in Al-Wadi District and 126 pieces of unexploded ordnance in Harib District. In Shabwa Governorate, specifically in Asilan District, two pieces of unexploded ordnance were dealt with. In Taiz Governorate, three pieces of unexploded ordnance were removed in Al-Mukha District, along with an anti-tank mine and 56 pieces of unexploded ordnance in Dhubab District, and two anti-personnel mines and 10 pieces of unexploded ordnance in Salah District.
The roots of the crisis: Indiscriminate landmine planting in Yemen
The landmine crisis in Yemen has its roots in the years-long armed conflict, during which militias have indiscriminately and extensively planted hundreds of thousands of landmines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in villages, schools, roads, and farms. These illegal practices, which violate international laws and norms, have transformed vast areas of Yemeni land into hidden death traps, threatening the lives of civilians daily. These mines have resulted in thousands of casualties, both dead and wounded, the majority of whom are among the most vulnerable groups, such as children, women, and the elderly. This has created a complex humanitarian crisis that requires urgent and sustained international intervention to mitigate its catastrophic consequences for Yemeni society.
The humanitarian and developmental impact of the Masam project efforts
The vital importance of the Masam Project not only in saving lives but also in restoring normalcy to affected areas. Locally, land clearance enables displaced people to safely return to their villages and homes, and allows farmers to resume their agricultural activities, which are the primary source of income for many Yemeni families. Regionally and internationally, these efforts reflect the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's commitment to achieving stability and peace in the region and alleviating the humanitarian burden on the international community. Thanks to these sacrifices, the total number of mines and unexploded ordnance removed since the project's inception has reached 553,828, representing a significant step towards a mine-free Yemen and contributing to empowering our Yemeni brothers and sisters to live in a safe environment that allows them to build a bright and sustainable future.
