History
The Gulf War Explained: A Defining Mideast Conflict
An overview of the 1990-1991 Gulf War, triggered by Iraq's invasion of Kuwait and resulting in a US-led coalition's military response.
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What is it?
The Gulf War was an international conflict that began on August 2, 1990, when Iraq, under dictator Saddam Hussein, invaded and occupied its neighboring country, Kuwait. Hussein's motivations included seizing Kuwait's vast oil reserves, canceling a significant debt Iraq owed to Kuwait, and expanding Iraqi regional power. In response, the United Nations condemned the invasion and imposed economic sanctions. An international coalition of 42 countries, led by the United States, was formed, deploying troops to Saudi Arabia in an operation named Desert Shield. When Iraq failed to withdraw by the UN's deadline, the combat phase, Operation Desert Storm, began on January 17, 1991, with a massive aerial bombing campaign followed by a ground assault.
Why is it trending?
The Gulf War remains a significant historical event as it was the first major international crisis after the Cold War. It set a precedent for post-Cold War international relations and the use of multinational coalition forces. The conflict was also notable for its extensive live television coverage, which brought the realities of modern warfare into homes worldwide. It showcased advanced military technology, including stealth aircraft and precision-guided munitions, which played a decisive role in the swift victory for the coalition forces. The war's aftermath, including ongoing sanctions against Iraq and the establishment of no-fly zones, shaped regional politics for decades.
How does it affect people?
The war had devastating effects on civilians. Kuwaitis suffered under Iraqi occupation, while Iraqi civilians endured the bombing campaign and subsequent years of severe economic sanctions that led to widespread malnutrition and disease. Millions of people were displaced, creating a massive refugee crisis. Veterans of the coalition forces reported a range of chronic health issues, collectively known as "Gulf War syndrome," believed to be linked to exposure to various toxins during the conflict. Environmentally, the conflict was catastrophic; Iraqi forces set hundreds of Kuwaiti oil wells on fire and caused a massive oil spill in the Persian Gulf, leading to long-term ecological damage.