Killer Gulf War mines cast a deadly legacy in Kuwait

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KUWAIT CITY, Nov 28, (Agencies): Decades after the invasion of Kuwait in 1990-1991, the specter of landmines continues to haunt the Gulf emirate, claiming lives and causing injuries, even among those born after the end of the Gulf War. The situation is particularly dire for migrant workers, including shepherds, who face the dangers of unexploded ordnance in the country’s deserts.

The Israeli military’s recent decision to plant landmines along parts of the Gaza-Israel fence echoes the far-reaching consequences of such actions. While the conflict between Iraq and Kuwait concluded with a U.S.-led military operation, approximately two million landmines were left behind by Iraqi soldiers in Kuwait’s deserts, coastlines, and cities.

Despite mine clearance efforts that removed an estimated 1.65 million mines in the years following the war, the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) reports that Kuwait’s desert areas “remain contaminated with landmines and unexploded ordnance.” The lingering threat poses significant risks to both migrant workers and Kuwaiti citizens, leading to tragic incidents and injuries.

Migrant workers, constituting about 96 percent of Kuwait’s private sector workforce, find themselves in perilous situations as they tend to flocks in areas with hidden dangers. Their stories shed light on the challenges they face, including labor rights abuses and the constant fear of explosions in the presence of landmines.

Efforts to verify and clear landmines in areas crucial to Kuwait’s economic interests, such as oil exploration sites, are ongoing. The oil industry, responsible for over 90 percent of Kuwait’s government revenues, remains a focal point for landmine clearance activities. However, the process is complex, and challenges persist, with some areas still presenting risks.

The consequences of the Gulf War are not limited to physical injuries; the psychological impact on those living and working in affected areas is evident. The lack of awareness and knowledge about the appearance of landmines contributes to injuries, with people unknowingly coming into contact with explosive devices.

As Kuwait grapples with the remnants of the Gulf War, questions arise about the feasibility of complete clearance. While mine action is not an exact science, efforts continue to minimize the risks posed by landmines. The international community’s attention is drawn to the ongoing threat, emphasizing the need for sustained efforts to protect lives and ensure the safety of those residing in and around affected areas.

While the memories of the Iraqi invasion may have faded for many Kuwaitis, the dangers persist beneath the surface, reminding the world of the enduring consequences of conflicts and the importance of addressing the aftermath for the well-being of affected communities.

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