The Deputy Governor of Hajjah governorate, Mohammed Yaqoub, has warned the liberated districts of Hajjah are facing a severe humanitarian crisis because of mines and explosive devices planted by Houthi militias.
Years of fighting in Hajjah between Houthi forces and government-backed troops left large areas contaminated, as Houthi fighters planted landmines and improvised explosive devices to block advances and control territory. These explosives have turned ordinary activities such as walking in farms, entering homes, visiting markets, or fishing along the coast, into daily risks of death or injury.
In an interview with Project Masam’s Media Office, Yaqoub explained that mines were laid in unconventional and highly complex patterns, sometimes in multiple layers, making removal extremely difficult and dangerous. He said that children, women, fishermen, and farmers have been the most affected. Mines have also killed livestock, including cattle and camels, and forced many families to abandon their homes and farms, he added.
Some residents who tried to return to their homes in the districts of Midi and Hayran found mines hidden everywhere, including inside walls, doorways, and even electrical lamps. According to Yaqoub, this shows the scale of the disaster facing the governorate. He added that development projects have been paralysed because “massive quantities” of mines were planted even in small areas, making normal movement and daily life almost impossible.
Yaqoub confirmed that Project Masam has now begun clearance operations in these districts, working to remove mines from farms, homes, schools, security centres, markets, and coastal areas. This work is helping to restore safety, revive social and economic activity, and allow education and basic services to resume, the deputy governor explained. He also highlighted how the project is not only clearing mines but also giving communities the chance to rebuild and return to normal life.
The deputy governor praised the courage of Project Masam’s demining teams, who risk their lives each day to protect civilians. “They cultivate life,” he stated, “rescuing children and women from sudden death. Their sacrifices benefit the entire community.”
Yaqoub expressed his gratitude to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – under the leadership of King Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and the Saudi government – for supporting Project Masam Project. He said their backing has restored hope to the people of Hajjah and allowed residents of the liberated districts to feel safe for the first time in many years.
