Project Masam has located and cleared 576,778 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 24 July 2026.
This total includes 7,587 anti-personnel mines, 152,202 anti-tank mines, 408,416 items of unexploded ordnance (UXO), and 8,573 improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Through these operations, 83,395,361 square metres of land have been made safe for civilian use, 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 18 to 24 July 2026, Project Masam teams cleared 1,367 explosive items, including 13 anti-personnel mines, 73 anti-tank mines, 1,275 items of UXO and six IEDs. Clearance operations during the same period covered 320,404 square metres of land.
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 not only by active fighting but also by widespread landmine contamination. Seasonal sand movement, flooding 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.
(Photo taken during refresher training in Aden, April 2026)
