Arabic version: تستمر أزمة الألغام الأرضية في اليمن على الرغم من جهود إزالة الألغام المستمرة

Yemen continues to grapple with a severe landmine crisis, significantly impacting civilians despite a truce and ongoing de-mining initiatives. According to Al Jazeera, the hidden dangers of landmines left from the civil war have resulted in numerous casualties, particularly among children.

The situation remains dire with reports indicating that at least 339 children have been killed and 843 injured since the 2022 ceasefire. Landmines, often referred to as “sleeping killers,” continue to pose a significant threat to everyday life in Yemen, turning once safe areas into perilous zones.

One tragic case involves Enaya Dastor, a young girl who lost her leg after stepping on a landmine in August 2023. Her story reflects the ongoing risks faced by children in the region, where many are unaware of the dangers that lurk in their surroundings. Dastor’s family has since fled their village, which had previously been on a front line, and they now reside in the city of Taiz, where the memories of the explosion haunt them.

Efforts to clear landmines are underway, with initiatives like Project Masam claiming to have removed over 549,452 mines and explosives since its inception in July 2018. However, challenges persist, including the indiscriminate placement of mines, the presence of armed groups, and a lack of resources for effective de-mining operations.

As the de-mining efforts continue, the plight of survivors like Dastor and Mohammed Mustafa, who also lost a leg to a landmine, underscores the lasting impact of the conflict. Both individuals express hope for the future, with Dastor aiming to pursue a law degree to advocate for others facing injustice, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity.