• Landmines scattered by the Iranian-backed militants are largely unmapped and remain a huge threat

RIYADH: The Saudi Project for Landmine Clearance dismantled 1,495 mines in Yemen during the first week of September. The figure comprised 14 antipersonnel mines, 834 anti-tank mines, 646 unexploded ordnances, and one explosive device.

The project is one of several initiatives undertaken by Saudi Arabia on the directive of King Salman to help ease the suffering of people in Yemen.

Saudi and international experts are removing mines planted by the Houthi militia in Marib, Aden, Al-Jawf, Shabwa, Taiz, Hodeidah, Lahij, Sanaa, Al-Bayda, Al-Dhale, and Saada.

Landmines are a massive impediment to social and economic development efforts, exposing citizens to risk generation after generation.

Landmines scattered by the Iranian-backed militants are largely unmapped and remain a huge threat.

A total of 272,770 mines have been cleared since the start of the project. More than 1.2 million mines have been planted by the Houthis, claiming the lives of hundreds of civilians.

The project has 32 de-mining teams to protect civilians and ensure that urgent humanitarian supplies are delivered safely. It trains local de-mining engineers, gives them modern equipment and helps mine victims.

Recently, the project’s contract was extended for another year at a cost of $33.6 million.

SPA