Landmines are Still a Threat in Lebanon

A very specific threat

In Mount Lebanon, HI’s demining teams of 8 experts (6 deminers, 1 site supervisor and 1 team leader) are conducting traditional mine clearance operations with metal detector and are facing a very specific kind of contamination: antipersonnel landmines, heritage of the civil war (1975-1990).

Dense vegetation

HI actually works in the Kfarnis area, a rural area, a few kilometres away from Bierut, where dense vegetation and rugged terrain make progress difficult. The site is particularly sensitive as it is close to civilian homes and markets, meaning residents live and work just meters away from potential danger.

“The vegetation makes movement and detection very slow,” Adnan notes, “but every meter we clear brings peace of mind to the people living nearby.”

HI’s operations there began in August 2025, and despite the difficult conditions, the team has already cleared approximately 2,400 m², which represents 4 football fields. So far, no landmines or unexploded ordnance (UXO) have been found at the site, but the meticulous process continues to ensure complete safety.

23 square kilometres remain contaminated by mines and explosive remnants in Lebanon.

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HI has been involved in Mine Action for around 15 years in Lebanon, contributing to clear the country from the threat of landmines and explosive ordnance. These last operations in Mount Lebanon are due to end this October.