The Persian Gulf War began on January 17, 1991, when a U.S.-led coalition launched Operation Desert Storm against Iraq in response to its invasion and annexation of Kuwait. The conflict marked a significant moment in modern military history, demonstrating the effectiveness of advanced military technology and international cooperation.
The crisis began on August 2, 1990, when Iraqi forces under Saddam Hussein invaded Kuwait, quickly overwhelming the small nation’s defenses. Hussein claimed Kuwait as Iraq’s 19th province, citing historical ties and accusing Kuwait of stealing oil through slant drilling. The invasion sparked immediate international condemnation and led to United Nations Security Council Resolution 678, which gave Iraq until January 15, 1991, to withdraw from Kuwait.
When Iraq failed to comply with the deadline, the coalition, consisting of 35 nations and led by the United States, initiated a massive air campaign. The operation began with precision strikes against Iraqi military and strategic targets, utilizing stealth technology and smart bombs. For 42 consecutive days, coalition forces conducted over 100,000 sorties, systematically degrading Iraq’s military capabilities, communication networks, and infrastructure.
The air campaign was revolutionary in its precision and effectiveness, showcasing new military technologies like the F-117 Stealth Fighter and Tomahawk cruise missiles. The conflict was also notable for being the first war broadcast live on television, with CNN providing 24-hour coverage of events as they unfolded.
The ground offensive, known as Operation Desert Sabre, began on February 24, 1991. Coalition forces, including American, British, French, and Arab units, executed a massive flanking maneuver through the Saudi Arabian desert, catching Iraqi forces off guard. The ground war lasted only 100 hours, resulting in a decisive victory for coalition forces.
The war’s human cost was significant, with estimates of Iraqi military casualties ranging from 20,000 to 35,000 killed. Coalition forces suffered relatively light casualties, with 292 killed in action. However, the conflict’s environmental impact was severe, as retreating Iraqi forces set fire to hundreds of Kuwaiti oil wells, causing massive environmental damage.
The Gulf War ended on February 28, 1991, when President George H.W. Bush declared a cessation of hostilities. Kuwait was liberated, but Saddam Hussein remained in power in Iraq, subject to strict international sanctions and weapons inspections. The conflict demonstrated the effectiveness of multinational military cooperation and established a new paradigm for modern warfare, emphasizing precision strikes, technological superiority, and minimal coalition casualties. The war’s aftermath would continue to influence Middle Eastern politics and international relations for decades to come.
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