Al-Qusaybi: The Masam project continues its work despite the increase in military operations in Yemen.

Project Masam Continues Mine Clearance Efforts Amid Escalating Military Operations in Yemen

The Director General of the “Masam” project for mine clearance in Yemen, Osama Al-Qusaybi, confirmed that all project teams are operating according to their established schedules. He emphasized the readiness of special task forces and rapid response teams to address any emergencies in their coverage areas within liberated regions. This comes despite the increasing intensity of military operations in Yemen, where Houthi terrorist militias continue to target the Yemeni people and their resources.

Houthi Militias Intensify Mine Planting

In a statement to the project’s media office, Al-Qusaybi noted, “Reports indicate that Houthi terrorist militias are planting more mines in areas under their control and along the routes they use. This reaffirms their determination to target civilians, instill fear, and force them to flee their villages and cities, thereby exerting pressure on the legitimate government.”

Commitment to Humanitarian Efforts

Al-Qusaybi reiterated, “At Masam, we remain committed to our humanitarian work and moral duty to secure roads and farms despite the ongoing military operations around our teams.” He explained that the project has intensified awareness campaigns to educate the local community about the dangers of mines, explosive devices, and war remnants. These campaigns specifically target all segments of society, with a focus on children and women, who are most vulnerable to these risks.

Adapting to Evolving Threats

Despite the ongoing advancements by Houthi militias in manufacturing mines and explosive devices, Masam continues to adapt. The expert team updates operational plans to counter these criminal behaviors effectively.

Rising Casualties Expected

Al-Qusaybi acknowledged that reports suggesting a potential increase in mine casualties due to current military operations are expected. He stated, “This is particularly true given the Houthis’ insistence on violating international humanitarian law by targeting civilians and their living spaces, destroying all aspects of normal life that every human being should enjoy.”

Engineering Teams Show Resilience

He highlighted that all 45 engineering teams deployed across areas under internationally recognized Yemeni government control have demonstrated remarkable sacrifice and courage. Their resolve remains unshaken despite bombardments occurring just a few kilometers away and threats from terrorist militias using drones overhead in certain locations.

Continuous Operations and Community Engagement

Al-Qusaybi explained that the project’s operations room works around the clock to receive reports from Yemeni citizens and respond to emergencies. Destruction operations continue as planned, with no materials being stored after removal or dismantling. He noted that Masam documents destruction operations through audio and visual means to ensure the international community witnesses these crimes.

Acknowledgment of Support

The Director General of the Masam project expressed his appreciation to the Yemeni government, governors, and local officials in all areas where the project operates. He also thanked military leaders and personnel in the Yemeni armed forces and security agencies for their support of the project teams. Al-Qusaybi acknowledged the efforts of the National Committee for Mine Action, led by Major General Amin Al-Aqili, and all personnel in the National Mine Action Program (YEMAC), as well as the Executive Center for Mine Action in Aden, led by Colonel Qaid Haitham, for their cooperation and coordination with the project on all mine-related activities in the Republic of Yemen.

Mine Clearance Achievements

Since its establishment until September 25, the Masam project has cleared and removed over 593,000 mines, explosive devices, and unexploded ordnance, covering a total area of 85.8 million square meters.

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