Meaning: This quote by Mohsen Makhmalbaf, an acclaimed Iranian film director, sheds light on the devastating impact of landmines in conflict zones, particularly in Afghanistan. Makhmalbaf's words reflect the sentiments of many individuals and communities affected by the widespread use of landmines in warfare. In this context, the quote delves into the questioning of the motivations behind the production and deployment of landmines, especially by Western countries, and emphasizes the urgent need to cease such destructive practices.

Makhmalbaf's reference to the "outside world, and particularly the Western world" producing and sending landmines to Afghanistan underscores the global dimension of the issue. The presence of landmines in Afghanistan, a country with a long history of conflict and political instability, has resulted in severe humanitarian consequences. The deployment of these weapons has led to countless casualties among civilians, including many children, and has posed significant obstacles to the country's post-conflict reconstruction and development efforts.

The quote also carries a strong moral message, as Makhmalbaf describes the production of landmines as a "dirty business" and emphasizes the inherently horrific nature of these devices. By characterizing the creation of landmines in such stark terms, Makhmalbaf condemns the ethical implications of manufacturing and using weapons that cause indiscriminate harm and continue to pose threats long after conflicts have ended. His words serve as a poignant reminder of the human cost of warfare and the responsibility of the international community to address the devastating legacy of landmines.

Makhmalbaf's call for the cessation of this "horrible device" reflects a broader global movement advocating for the eradication of landmines. The international community has increasingly recognized the grave humanitarian impact of landmines and taken steps to address the issue. In 1997, the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction, also known as the Ottawa Treaty, was adopted as a pivotal multilateral disarmament agreement aimed at eliminating landmines worldwide.

Furthermore, organizations such as the International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL) have played a crucial role in raising awareness about the consequences of landmines and advocating for their complete elimination. Through advocacy, research, and humanitarian action, these organizations have contributed to the stigmatization of landmines and the mobilization of global efforts to clear affected areas, assist victims, and prevent further use of these destructive weapons.

In conclusion, Mohsen Makhmalbaf's quote poignantly captures the moral outrage and urgent call to action regarding the production and deployment of landmines, particularly in the context of conflict-affected regions like Afghanistan. His words resonate with the broader efforts to address the humanitarian impact of landmines and reflect the collective responsibility to work towards a world free of these indiscriminate and devastating weapons. By highlighting the human suffering caused by landmines and condemning their production and use, Makhmalbaf's quote contributes to the ongoing global discourse on disarmament, humanitarian action, and the protection of civilian lives in conflict zones.