Project Masam Destroys Nearly 6,000 Unexploded Ordnance Items in Yemen

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Jul 24, 2026 ALN: Saudi-backed Project Masam has made significant strides in addressing the dangers posed by unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Yemen, particularly in the Bab Al-Mandab area of Taiz governorate. In a recent operation, the project successfully destroyed a total of 5,977 items of unexploded ordnance, underscoring the ongoing efforts to mitigate the risks associated with landmines and remnants of war that continue to threaten civilian populations.

The destroyed ordnance comprised a range of dangerous items, including 142 shells of various types, 2,758 fuzes, 2,998 rounds of ammunition, 14 anti-personnel mines, 36 anti-tank mines, nine hand grenades, six missiles, eight improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and six warheads. This comprehensive destruction followed the completion of rigorous technical safety procedures, reflecting the project's commitment to safety and efficiency in handling such hazardous materials.

Adib Rajab, commander of Masam's Special Task Team 2, provided insight into the operations, indicating that the destroyed items had been collected over the past month from various locations along Yemen's western coast. The areas targeted for recovery included villages, farmland, and grazing regions, where the presence of unexploded ordnance posed a direct and immediate threat to civilians, particularly vulnerable groups such as children, farmers, and shepherds.

The destruction process itself is a meticulous operation. Rajab explained that the team follows established technical procedures, which begin with the excavation of a deep pit designed to safely contain the ordnance. The items are arranged in successive layers within the pit, with the operation involving eight distinct layers of explosive remnants. This layered approach is crucial for ensuring a controlled detonation, minimizing the risk of accidental explosions, and maximizing the effectiveness of the destruction.

In this layered arrangement, smaller munitions are placed in the lower layers, while more highly explosive materials are positioned above them. This strategic placement ensures that the detonation can be controlled effectively, allowing for the complete destruction of all items and the elimination of any remaining hazardous fragments that could pose further risks to the surrounding community.

Rajab has emphasized the importance of public awareness regarding the dangers of unexploded ordnance. He urged residents in Yemen's western coastal areas to avoid approaching, moving, or tampering with any suspicious objects or unexploded ordnance they may encounter. Such actions could lead to tragic accidents, and therefore, it is critical for individuals to exercise caution and report any suspected explosive remnants of war to Masam teams, local security authorities, or local officials for safe removal.

Project Masam's ongoing operations are part of a broader effort to conduct mine clearance and explosive ordnance disposal across several Yemeni governorates, where unexploded munitions remain a persistent threat to civilians and daily life. The project, which has garnered international attention and support, aims to create safer living conditions for the population by clearing affected areas of these dangerous remnants of conflict.

The presence of unexploded ordnance in Yemen is a significant issue, stemming from years of conflict that have left the country riddled with landmines and other explosive remnants. The ongoing civil war, which escalated in 2015, has exacerbated this problem, with various factions utilizing mines and other explosives in their military strategies. As fighting has intensified over the years, the landscape has become increasingly hazardous for civilians. Many have suffered injuries or fatalities due to encounters with unexploded munitions, highlighting the urgent need for clearance operations.

In addition to the immediate physical dangers posed by unexploded ordnance, the broader implications of such remnants are profound. They hinder agricultural activities, restrict access to land, and contribute to a climate of fear that affects the overall well-being of communities. Farmers are often unable to cultivate their lands due to the threat of encountering mines, leading to food insecurity and economic instability. The agricultural sector, which is vital for Yemen's economy and food supply, suffers greatly as a result of these hazards.

Furthermore, the psychological impact of living in a mine-affected area can be debilitating. The constant awareness of hidden dangers can lead to anxiety and stress within communities, particularly among children who may not fully understand the risks associated with such remnants. The fear of landmines can prevent children from playing outside or engaging in normal childhood activities, further isolating them and impacting their development. As a result, initiatives like Project Masam are not only crucial for physical safety but also for the mental health and resilience of affected populations.

Internationally, the issue of unexploded ordnance in Yemen has drawn attention from various humanitarian organizations and governments seeking to provide assistance and support for clearance efforts. The complexity of the situation, coupled with the ongoing conflict, poses challenges for demining operations. Access to certain areas may be restricted due to active fighting or political instability, complicating the logistics of safe clearance. However, the commitment demonstrated by Project Masam highlights the importance of continued efforts to address this humanitarian crisis.

As Project Masam continues its vital work, it serves as a reminder of the long-term consequences of armed conflict and the urgent need for collective action to ensure that affected communities can reclaim their land and live free from the threat of unexploded ordnance. The work being done not only aims to clear the physical dangers but also to restore hope and stability to a nation that has endured years of turmoil. The success of such projects is essential for rebuilding trust within communities and fostering a sense of security that is critical for long-term recovery.

In conclusion, while the destruction of nearly 6,000 unexploded ordnance items is a significant achievement, it is merely one step in a larger process of recovery and rehabilitation for Yemen. Continuous support, both locally and internationally, is required to sustain these efforts and ultimately pave the way for a safer, more stable future for the people of Yemen. The ongoing work of Project Masam is indicative of the resilience of those involved and the hope that remains for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict, allowing communities to heal and thrive once again.