The Executive Director of the Yemen Mine Observatory, Fares Al-Hameiri, has confirmed that clearing mines in Yemen could take between 20 to 30 years due to the complexity of some of the mines planted by Houthi rebels.
Speaking in an interview with Al Arabiya Al Hadath news channel, Al-Hameiri emphasized that landmines are one of the most critical and dangerous aspects of the war in Yemen, often overlooked by official bodies and international organizations.
According to Al-Hameiri, there are nine Yemeni governorates with areas heavily contaminated by landmines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted extensively and indiscriminately by the Houthi group.
Notably, the coastal region stretches from Al-Durayhimi district in Al-Hodeidah governorate through the coastal districts of Taiz governorate and Lahij governorate.
Estimations by the United States suggesting an 8-year timeline for mine clearance are inaccurate due to several factors.
Mines were planted across vast and diverse terrains including deserts, mountains, plateaus, plains, valleys, and agricultural areas, making it challenging for engineering teams operating in the field.
“Our estimations indicate that mine clearance will take between 20 to 30 years,” said Al-Hameiri, highlighting the complexity of some mines planted by the Houthis, such as plastic mines, which were heavily concentrated in several civilian areas.
He explained that significant efforts and extensive humanitarian support are provided by the Saudi Project for Landmines Clearance (MASAM).
The program operates in wide civilian areas, and its estimates suggest the removal of nearly half a million mines, IEDs, and unexploded ordnance.
Additionally, military engineering teams affiliated with government forces are actively involved in mine clearance efforts, both on the western coast and in other provinces.
Al-Hameiri noted recent observations indicating that the Houthis have employed highly advanced technologies, including infrared-activated mines and entire fields planted with uniformly triggered mines, alongside plastic mines.
Foreign expertise is believed to be behind this significant technological advancement, especially in the planting of maritime mines.
The United States has accused the Houthis of planting over two million mines in Yemen, aiming to turn the country into the largest minefield ever.
