Project Masam has located and cleared 596,036 landmines and explosive threats across Yemen’s liberated areas since operations began in July 2018, according to the latest cumulative figures covering activities up to 9 October 2026.
This total includes 7,759 anti-personnel mines, 153,174 anti-tank mines, 426,414 items of unexploded ordnance (UXO) and 8,689 improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Through these operations, 86,179,144 square metres of land have been cleared, supporting safer returns, livelihoods and humanitarian access across multiple governorates.
Since the escalation of the conflict in 2014, large areas of Yemen have been contaminated with landmines and explosive remnants of war, particularly in formerly contested and strategically significant regions. Estimates indicate that between one and two million mines were laid nationwide by the Houthis, creating long-term risks for civilians, agriculture, infrastructure and humanitarian operations.
During the latest reporting week, from 3 to 9 October 2026, Project Masam teams cleared 1,291 explosive threats, including 10 anti-personnel mines, 26 anti-tank mines, 1,253 items of UXO and two IEDs. Clearance operations covered 209,755 square metres of land.
Operations during the week were recorded across Abyan, Aden, Al Dhale, Hadramawt, Hajjah, Lahj, Marib, Shabwah and Taiz.
In Mukalla, Hadramawt, teams cleared 1,015 items of UXO and three anti-tank mines. In Aden, teams recorded 184 items of UXO and two IEDs, while clearance in Ras Al-Araah, Lahj, included nine anti-personnel mines and 31 items of UXO. In Marib, teams cleared a further 21 anti-tank mines.
Project Masam continues to prioritise the clearance of villages, agricultural land, schools, infrastructure and access routes to enable safer movement for civilians and humanitarian workers.
Up to five million Yemenis have been displaced since the start of the war, many forced from their homes by active fighting and widespread landmine contamination. Seasonal sand movement and flooding, difficult terrain and restricted access continue to complicate clearance efforts.
Despite these challenges, Project Masam remains committed to protecting lives and supporting Yemen’s recovery through sustained humanitarian mine action.
