Saudi Arabia's Project Masam Clears 1,579 Mines in Yemen

In recent years, Yemen has faced a devastating conflict that has left countless civilians in peril. One of the most pressing dangers in this war-torn country is the presence of land mines and explosive devices, which pose a significant threat to innocent lives. To combat this issue, Saudi Arabia has initiated Project Masam, a dedicated effort aimed at clearing these deadly remnants of war.

Last week, Project Masam achieved a remarkable milestone by removing a total of 1,579 explosive devices from various regions of Yemen. This impressive figure included five anti-personnel mines, 126 anti-tank mines, 1,442 unexploded ordnances, and six other explosive devices. Ousama Al-Gosaibi, the managing director of the initiative, reported that since its launch in 2018, Project Masam has successfully cleared a staggering 465,252 mines. These explosives were often planted indiscriminately, creating a perilous environment for civilians, particularly vulnerable groups such as children, women, and the elderly.

Project Masam is part of a broader humanitarian effort ordered by King Salman of Saudi Arabia, aimed at assisting the Yemeni people. The initiative not only focuses on clearing mines but also works to ensure safe routes for humanitarian aid to reach those in need. The demining operations have taken place in various provinces, including Marib, Aden, Jouf, Shabwa, Taiz, Hodeidah, Lahij, Sanaa, Al-Bayda, Al-Dhale, and Saada. By training local demining engineers and providing them with modern equipment, Project Masam empowers the Yemeni people to take charge of their safety and recovery.

Moreover, the initiative extends its support to Yemenis who have been injured by these explosive devices, offering assistance and care to those affected. The teams involved in the project are tasked with clearing villages, roads, and schools, thereby facilitating safe movement for civilians and ensuring that humanitarian aid can be delivered effectively.

As the conflict in Yemen continues, approximately 5 million people have been forced to flee their homes, many of whom have been displaced due to the presence of land mines. The work of Project Masam is crucial in restoring safety and stability to these communities. It is a reminder that even in the darkest times, there are efforts being made to protect the innocent and provide hope for a better future. The ongoing commitment to demining operations not only saves lives but also paves the way for rebuilding and healing in a country that has endured so much suffering.