
A book titled “The Landmines of al-Yemen al-Saeed” highlights the pioneering role of the Masam project
Egyptian journalist Hussein El-Badawy has released his first book, The Landmines of al-Yemen al-Saeed (Happy Yemen): A Journey on the Frontlines of Hell, published by Al-Ain Publishing House. Over 333 pages, the book documents Al-Badawi’s journey through Yemen’s minefields and sheds light on the devastating legacy of landmines in the country.
Through his book, the Egyptian writer underscores the vital role of the Masam Landmine Clearance Project-Yemen. Launched by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center in June 2018, the Masam project has worked tirelessly to clear Yemeni territory of indiscriminate landmines—both anti-personnel and anti-tank—as well as explosive devices and unexploded ordnance.
“When I arrived in Yemen on my journalistic mission to expose the human tragedy caused by landmines in the liberated areas—territories once seized by militias—I was truly shocked by the scale of the catastrophe Yemen will endure for decades to come. I suddenly found myself on the frontlines, standing amid the most dangerous remnants of war,” El-Badawy reflected.
El-Badawy added: “My goals changed as I walked through the minefields. The journalistic investigation I set out to conduct grew into something bigger—a book that sheds light on the grave challenge facing the land of Queen Bilqis, and documents what has happened to al-Yemen al-Saeed that has been greatly affected by the specter of death that continues to claim the lives of innocent people returning to their homes.”
He also expressed his pride in this achievement and the significance it holds in his journalistic career, emphasizing that the book serves as an important document on a humanitarian issue that will remain at the forefront in international arenas for decades to come.
This publication reflects El-Badawy’s commitment to documenting humanitarian and journalistic experiences in the region. The book is expected to resonate widely with readers and those interested in humanitarian and media issues, particularly as it will be featured at international events, most notably the Riyadh International Book Fair 2025.
