The Saudi Project for Landmine Clearance (Masam), implemented by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief), successfully removed 536 mines in Yemen during the second week of February 2025, according to a statement from the Saudi Press Agency (SPA). The cleared ordnance included 9 anti-personnel mines, 48 anti-tank mines, 478 unexploded ordnance, and one improvised explosive device, marking another milestone in Saudi Arabia’s ongoing humanitarian efforts in Yemen.
Context and Background
The Masam project, launched by KSrelief in 2018, is a flagship Saudi humanitarian initiative aimed at clearing landmines and unexploded ordnance across Yemen. These mines, indiscriminately planted by Houthi forces, have caused thousands of civilian casualties and continue to pose a grave threat to the Yemeni people, particularly children, women, and the elderly. To date, Masam has removed over 481,000 mines, enabling safe return of displaced families and facilitating humanitarian aid delivery.
Key Details
During the first two weeks of February alone, Masam cleared a total of 1,250 mines. The project operates through highly trained Yemeni teams supported by international experts, using advanced detection and clearance technologies. KSrelief ensures transparency and accountability in all operations, with regular reporting to the international community. The cleared areas include vital agricultural land, roads, and residential zones, directly benefiting local communities.
Implications and Impact
The removal of landmines is critical for Yemen’s stabilization and reconstruction. Each cleared mine reduces the risk to civilians and allows for the restoration of essential services and economic activity. The Masam project also contributes to regional security by preventing the flow of explosive materials and supporting the UN-led peace process. Saudi Arabia’s commitment to mine clearance underscores its leadership in humanitarian action and its dedication to alleviating the suffering of the Yemeni people.
Vision 2030 Alignment
The Masam project aligns directly with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals of promoting regional stability, humanitarian leadership, and sustainable development. By removing the remnants of conflict, Saudi Arabia enables Yemeni communities to rebuild and thrive, reflecting the Kingdom’s broader commitment to global peace and prosperity. As Masam continues its work, it remains a beacon of hope for a mine-free Yemen and a testament to Saudi Arabia’s enduring partnership with the Yemeni people.
20 Questions
Q1. What is the Masam project?
A1. The Masam project is a Saudi-led initiative by KSrelief to clear landmines and unexploded ordnance in Yemen, launched in 2018 to protect civilians and enable reconstruction.
Q2. Who implements the Masam project?
A2. The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) implements the Masam project in cooperation with international experts and Yemeni teams.
Q3. How many mines were cleared in the second week of February 2025?
A3. A total of 536 mines were cleared during the second week of February 2025, including anti-personnel and anti-tank mines, unexploded ordnance, and an IED.
Q4. What types of ordnance were cleared in that week?
A4. The cleared ordnance included 9 anti-personnel mines, 48 anti-tank mines, 478 unexploded ordnance, and one improvised explosive device.
Q5. How many mines have been cleared overall since Masam began?
A5. Since its launch, the Masam project has removed a total of 481,766 mines across Yemen.
Q6. Why are mines a problem in Yemen?
A6. Mines are indiscriminately planted by Houthi forces, killing and maiming civilians, especially children, women, and the elderly, and preventing safe movement and reconstruction.
Q7. Who benefits from mine clearance?
A7. All Yemeni civilians benefit, as cleared areas become safe for living, farming, and aid delivery, allowing displaced families to return.
Q8. How does Masam contribute to Yemen’s reconstruction?
A8. By removing mines, Masam opens up land for rebuilding infrastructure, agriculture, and housing, and facilitates humanitarian access.
Q9. Is Masam coordinated with international organizations?
A9. Yes, Masam works with international experts and follows UN standards for mine action, ensuring transparency and effectiveness.
Q10. How are mined areas identified?
A10. Teams use advanced detection equipment, surveys, and community reports to locate and map mined areas before clearance operations.
Q11. What safety measures are in place for clearance teams?
A11. Teams receive extensive training, use protective gear, and follow strict protocols to minimize risks during clearance operations.
Q12. How does Masam support Vision 2030?
A12. Masam reflects Saudi Arabia’s humanitarian leadership and commitment to regional stability, key pillars of Vision 2030’s global engagement goals.
Q13. What is KSrelief’s role in Yemen?
A13. KSrelief coordinates and funds numerous humanitarian projects in Yemen, including mine clearance, food aid, healthcare, and education.
Q14. How does mine clearance help children in Yemen?
A14. Clearance reduces the risk of child casualties and allows children to play, attend school, and live in safer environments.
Q15. Are there any challenges in the clearance operations?
A15. Challenges include difficult terrain, conflict zones, and limited access, but Masam adapts with local partnerships and mobile teams.
Q16. What is the long-term goal of Masam?
A16. The goal is to make Yemen mine-free, enabling full recovery and sustainable development for all Yemenis.
Q17. Does Masam provide assistance to mine victims?
A17. Yes, KSrelief also supports victim assistance programs, including medical care and rehabilitation for those injured by mines.
Q18. How can the international community support these efforts?
A18. The international community can contribute through funding, technical support, and diplomatic backing for mine action in Yemen.
Q19. What is the significance of the 481,766 mines cleared figure?
A19. It represents Saudi Arabia’s substantial and sustained commitment to saving lives and restoring safety across Yemen since 2018.
Q20. Where can official updates about Masam be found?
A20. Official updates are released by KSrelief and the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), providing regular reports on clearance progress.
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