Masam: Saudi project clears Houthi land mines in a land where ‘every step might kill you’

Ousama Al-Gosaibi, managing director of Masam project, says they work on emergency response after identifying the locations of mines in freed areas. (Supplied)
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Updated 03 April 2023
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Masam: Saudi project clears Houthi land mines in a land where ‘every step might kill you’

  • Deadly harvest as 400,000 militia mines turn Yemen’s agricultural land into minefields

RIYADH: Yemen is known for its fertile farmland, and its agricultural sector is among the most productive in Yemen’s national economy.

However, since the Houthi uprising in Yemen in 2014, the country has become known for a completely different type of planting — mine planting — causing the death of civilians and innocent victims.

Saudi Arabia has committed to protecting Yemeni civilians by launching the Masam project for land mine clearance in Yemen.

The humanitarian initiative helps Yemenis remove the threat of mines, explosive devices and unexploded munitions, which claim the lives of many innocent civilians, including children, women and the elderly, in various Yemeni regions and villages.

The Masam project was launched in mid-June 2018 under the umbrella of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center.

Land mine clearance is achieved through Saudi expertise, as well as international experts and Yemeni cadres trained in mine clearance techniques.

The project helps Yemenis avoid the tragedies that result from the spread of mines and explosive devices in all Yemeni governorates, allowing them to live peacefully and also build the Yemeni capabilities in mine clearance.

Ousama Al-Gosaibi, managing director of the project, said: “The project works on emergency response after identifying the locations of mines in freed areas. This is achieved by developing and preparing plans that help trained teams with the clearance process, despite the lack of maps that identify the locations of mines, which constitutes a significant challenge for the team and is also one of the Houthis’ war crimes.

“Besides removing the mines, the project also works on destroying them to ensure that they are not used again. The team seeks to update its capabilities and develop its land mine clearance techniques, although the Houthi militia insists on developing its own techniques to target as many civilians as possible.”

Al-Gosaibi added: “Since mid-2018, land mine clearance teams have removed 390,586 mines in freed Yemeni regions, distributed as follows: 6,065 prohibited anti-personnel mines, 137,197 anti-tank mines, 7,741 explosive devices, and 239,583 unexploded munitions that were deactivated.”

He said: “We have witnessed new Houthi tricks in planting and manufacturing mines, as well as new techniques, huge quantities and significant numbers not recorded since the Second World War.”

The Houthis are adopting a brutal approach in planting huge quantities of mines and explosives near schools, healthcare facilities and water tanks, Al-Gosaibi said.

Mine clearance in Yemen is a lengthy process, requiring years, because of the large number of devices and the lack of maps identifying their location, he said.

“The Houthis are still planting thousands of mines in Yemen,” Al-Gosaibi added.

The project’s engineering teams handle all recognizable land mines, in addition to mines made locally by the militias in their own factories.

These devices account for 85 percent of the total number of deactivated mines and are among the most dangerous, as they are designed to explode under minimum pressure.

Teams also handle explosive devices developed and camouflaged by the militias in the form of stones, reinforced concrete, and other familiar and deceptive shapes.

“What worries us the most today is the rapid spread of new land mines that are locally manufactured by the Houthis,” Al-Gosaibi said.

“Imagine stumbling on an anti-tank land mine that has been transformed into an anti-personnel mine on your way back from your land. Imagine targeting a classroom with explosives. This is the harsh reality of living in Yemen today; every step might kill you.

“What is sad is that these explosives don’t differentiate between people. Thousands of Yemenis die or lose limbs every year, and this is why the Masam project works relentlessly on eliminating the threat of land mines in Yemen. In order to ensure Yemen’s ability to rebuild safely, we train and oversee local deminers, who are risking their lives to help others.”

Al-Gosaibi said the project has trained 32 engineering teams, which have been provided with the latest technologies in mine detection. The Masam project also includes over 550 experts, deminers and employees working on the ground.

Somaya Al-Mahmoud, the project’s director of public relations and media affairs, said: “Many civilians have been victims of mines. There are many moving stories that evoke the suffering of a population still facing a silent danger that is permanently threatening their lives. The number of mines in Yemen today exceeds that of any other country in the world.”




Somaya Al-Mahmoud, Project Masam’s director of public relations and media affairs. (Supplied)

Al-Mahmoud said that according to a UN study, planting one mine costs between $10 and $20, while removing it costs between $500 and $1,000.

Figures from mid-June 2018 to March 2023:

Masam project engineering teams were able to remove 390,586 mines, unexploded munitions and explosive devices:

239,583 unexploded munitions

7,741 explosive devices

137,197 anti-tank mines

6,065 anti-personnel mines

Total spent on the land mine clearance project in Yemen so far exceeds $167 million.


Exhibitions at Prophet’s Mosque bring Islamic heritage to life

The exhibitions enrich the visitor experience with historical and cultural insights reflecting Islamic heritage. (SPA)
Updated 22 June 2025
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Exhibitions at Prophet’s Mosque bring Islamic heritage to life

  • The Rare Manuscripts exhibition in annex 204 of the southern courtyards, which is open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., showcases “historical manuscripts, documents, and inscriptions that trace the evolution of Islamic writing”

MADINAH: The corridors and courtyards of the Prophet’s Mosque feature “unique sites and exhibitions that enrich the visitor experience, offering historical and cultural insights that reflect Islamic heritage and Madinah’s hospitality,” according to an article published by the Saudi Press Agency on Saturday.

A key attraction is the Architectural Evolution of the Prophet’s Mosque exhibition, located on the southern courtyard opposite exits 308 and 309, which uses interactive displays to highlight the mosque’s architectural development. It is open daily from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Opposite exits 306 and 307 is the International Exhibition of the Prophet’s Biography. Open from 4:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. daily, it offers “a contemporary presentation of Prophet Muhammad’s life and teachings.”

The Rare Manuscripts exhibition in annex 204 of the southern courtyards, which is open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., showcases “historical manuscripts, documents, and inscriptions that trace the evolution of Islamic writing.”

The mosque’s library, at gate 10 on the western side, is open 24 hours a day and includes sections on manuscripts, rare books, audio archives, and art collections.

Near Uthman Gate, the Manuscripts and Rare Books Department serves researchers and enthusiasts. It houses more than 4,000 original manuscripts, nearly 60,000 digital copies, 4,600 photocopies, and 450 different editions of the Qur’an. It operates in two shifts: 8 a.m.–noon and 4–8 p.m.

“Together, these exhibitions and centers enhance the cultural and educational value of visiting the Prophet’s Mosque, offering pilgrims a more enriching experience,” the SPA stated.

 


New campaign urges Saudis to safeguard artifacts

Updated 21 June 2025
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New campaign urges Saudis to safeguard artifacts

  • Nationwide effort aims to curb threats to heritage sites and artifacts

RIYADH: The Heritage Commission launched the “Aadat” national awareness campaign to enhance public understanding of the importance of Saudi antiquities.

The campaign underscores the vital role of artifacts in reinforcing the Kingdom’s cultural and national identity, reflecting the succession of civilizations across its land over millennia.

It is part of a broader series of initiatives by the commission to spotlight Saudi antiquities and raise awareness of threats they face, such as encroachments and illegal trafficking.

HIGHLIGHT

The campaign promotes the idea that protecting antiquities is a shared responsibility, rooted in a deep appreciation of their role in the nation’s cultural heritage.

The campaign promotes the idea that protecting antiquities is a shared responsibility, rooted in a deep appreciation of their role in the nation’s cultural heritage, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

It adopts a comprehensive approach using various media and outreach tools, including field campaigns in public areas, markets, malls, and universities across multiple regions.

The commission also plans to introduce interactive pavilions to showcase key archaeological sites and highlight the Kingdom’s geographical and cultural diversity.

It stressed that the campaign continues its ongoing efforts to safeguard artifacts, which are rich in symbolic and cultural meaning.

Each artifact, the commission noted, tells a story from the past, and its preservation is essential to maintaining the national memory for future generations.

The commission announced last week that 744 new archaeological sites have been added to the National Antiquities Register, raising the total to 10,061 across the Kingdom.

This milestone underscores the richness and diversity of Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage and reflects the commission’s ongoing commitment to documenting and preserving these sites.

The newly registered sites are spread across several regions: Riyadh (253), Makkah (11), Madinah (167), Qassim (30), Eastern Province (13), Asir (64), Tabuk (72), Hail (13), Northern Borders (2), Jazan (23), Najran (86), and Jouf (10).

Stressing the importance of community involvement in heritage preservation, the commission urged citizens and residents to report unregistered sites via the Balagh platform, social media, or the Unified Security Operations Center at 911.

 


Saudi Arabia, France civil aviation authorities discuss boosting cooperation

Saudi and French civil aviation officials pose for a group photo in Paris. (SPA)
Updated 21 June 2025
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Saudi Arabia, France civil aviation authorities discuss boosting cooperation

  • Discussions were held on mutual investment opportunities in aircraft design and assembly, as well as the incentives Saudi Arabia offers to attract high-quality investments in the aviation industry

PARIS: A delegation from the Saudi civil aviation sector, led by General Authority of Civil Aviation President Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, visited the Airbus factory in Toulouse, France, as part of the 55th Paris Air Show at Le Bourget, which ends on June 22.

The visit strengthens cooperation with France in areas such as manufacturing, technology transfer, and localization of the aerospace industry, Saudi Press Agency said in a report.

Discussions were held on mutual investment opportunities in aircraft design and assembly, as well as the incentives Saudi Arabia offers to attract high-quality investments in the aviation industry.

 

 


Saudi FM reaffirms support for Palestine, condemns Israeli strikes on Iran at OIC meeting in Istanbul

Updated 21 June 2025
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Saudi FM reaffirms support for Palestine, condemns Israeli strikes on Iran at OIC meeting in Istanbul

  • Was speaking during opening session of 51st meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the OIC

RIYADH: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan reaffirmed the Kingdom’s unwavering support for the Palestinian cause during the opening session of the 51st meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, held in Istanbul on Saturday.

The foreign minister also condemned the Israeli strikes on Iran, describing them as a “blatant” violation of international law and an infringement on Iranian sovereignty and security.

The meeting, hosted by Turkiye, marked the start of its presidency of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers. Prince Faisal congratulated Turkiye on assuming the role and extended thanks to Cameroon for its efforts during its previous term.

In his address, Prince Faisal underscored the importance Saudi Arabia placed on the Palestinian issue, highlighting the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to end the war in Gaza, alleviate the worsening humanitarian crisis, and unify Arab and Islamic positions on the conflict.

He reiterated Saudi Arabia’s firm support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state along the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.

Turning to the Israeli-Iranian conflict, he said: “These attacks threaten the security and stability of the region,” and called for an immediate halt to military operations, de-escalation, and a return to negotiations between Iran and the international community.

Prince Faisal also reiterated Saudi Arabia’s continued backing of efforts to resolve the crisis in Yemen, expressing support for a comprehensive political solution and the restoration of peace, stability, and security in the country.


Saudi foreign minister holds talks with Egyptian and Pakistani counterparts on OIC sidelines

Updated 21 June 2025
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Saudi foreign minister holds talks with Egyptian and Pakistani counterparts on OIC sidelines

ISTANBUL: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan held separate meetings on Saturday with his Egyptian and Pakistani counterparts on Saturday.

The discussions were held on the sidelines of the 51st session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation Council of Foreign Ministers in Istanbul.

During talks with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, the two sides reviewed the close relations between the Kingdom and Egypt and discussed regional developments and their impact on the security of the region, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Prince Faisal also met with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. The discussions focused on bilateral ties, as well as regional and international developments and ongoing efforts to address them, SPA added.

Both meetings were attended by Prince Musab bin Mohammed Al-Farhan, advisor to the Foreign Minister for Political Affairs, and Fahd bin Asaad Abu Al-Nasr, Saudi ambassador to Turkiye.