Houthi Landmines Disrupt Agriculture in Yemen

Landmines planted by the Houthi militia over the past decade have transformed vast areas of fertile agricultural land in Yemen into deadly fields. This situation has severely disrupted agricultural activities and deprived thousands of farmers of their land, exacerbating poverty, unemployment, and the humanitarian crisis in the country.

Madi District: A Particularly Affected Area

Madi District in Hajjah Governorate stands out as one of the most impacted regions. Entire farms have become hazardous zones, leading to a significant decline in agricultural production. However, efforts are underway to address this issue through the “Masam” project, initiated by the King Salman Center. This project aims to rehabilitate portions of the land and prepare them for safe use.

New Clearance Operations in Madi

According to a statement from the “Masam” project, Team 37 successfully removed 180 anti-tank mines and three explosive devices, while clearing 300,000 square meters of agricultural land north of Madi. These operations took place near populated villages, helping to restore hope for farmers and enabling them to return to their lands and resume agricultural activities safely.

UN Warnings About Landmines

Human rights reports have warned that agricultural lands and roads in Yemen have turned into minefields, posing a significant threat to civilian lives. An official report from the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights revealed that Yemen ranks among the most affected countries in the world regarding landmines and explosives, with over 200 casualties recorded in 2024 alone.

Impact of Landmines on Food Security

The report highlights that the effects of landmines extend beyond human casualties; they also paralyze the agricultural sector and threaten food security. Farmers and herders have been forced to abandon their lands and pastures due to the fear of mines, contributing to rising rural poverty and malnutrition. The Yemeni government asserts that the Houthi militia has planted over two million mines in various regions, marking the highest number since World War II. This situation makes demining efforts an urgent necessity to save civilian lives and revitalize the agricultural sector.

For more information, visit Yemen TV.

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