The medical team of al-Balsam International Organization, led by cardiac consultant Dr. Emad Bukhari, concluded its mission in the Yemeni city Mukalla, Hadramout governorate. At least 13 open-heart surgeries and about 80 interventional and diagnostic catheterizations have been conducted by the team for Yemeni patients. “The team had identified over 300 patients with heart disease who had flocked into the center from various Yemeni governorates,” Bukhari told Asharq Al Awsat. “We are very pleased to conclude this voluntary humanitarian aid campaign by the team,” he added. “We have had 13 open-heart operations, all of which are difficult, complex but ended successfully.” The chief medic also confirmed that more than 90 percent of the patients have returned to their homes and the rest will leave the center within the next two days. “The medical team also conducted about 80 interventional catheterizations during its five days in Mukalla,” he said. “Fifty percent of the catheterization was impossible because of its seriousness, but the medical team was able to do it and ensure patient safety and life continuity.” He pointed out that the team’s visit to Mukalla under war-imposed difficult circumstances came to send a message of love and peace to the Yemeni people and is consistent with the vision of the international organization, which seeks to help the needy in different countries around the world. Bukhari expressed the organizations appreciation to Saudi-led Arab Coalition forces backing Yemen’s legitimate government for the help provided for overcoming all logistic difficulties faced by the team. He pointed out that the organization received open and unrestricted support to help Yemeni patients and carry out surgeries for as many beneficiaries as possible. According to scientific research, the cases of heart disease and arteriosclerosis in Yemen are increasing steadily, which explains the increase in cases registered with the center. “We are seeking to increase flights to Yemen, but it is linked to the necessary financial support from international organizations and donors and philanthropists in Saudi Arabia with whom we communicate, as well as on the basis of what is decided by the organization’s board of directors.” In a statement thanking al-Balsam’s medical team, Hadramout governor Major General Faraj Salemin Al-Bassani said that humanitarian assistance by Saudi Arabia is very appreciated by the people of Yemen. “The citizens of Hadramout thank them, and authorities appreciate their works, as well as assistance provided by Saudi Arabia to us.”