The Authorization of Military Force Against Iraq: January 12, 1991
1991 · Washington D.C., United States
The United States Congress authorizes the use of military force to drive Iraq out of Kuwait, leading to the Gulf War.
The Invasion of Kuwait by Iraq on August 2, 1990
On August 2, 1990, Iraq, under the leadership of President Saddam Hussein, launched a military invasion of its smaller neighbor, Kuwait. This aggressive act marked the beginning of a major international conflict known as the Gulf War, which saw a coalition of forces led by the United States intervening to liberate Kuwait.
Background
The roots of the conflict can be traced to several factors:
Economic Disputes: Iraq accused Kuwait of overproducing oil, which led to a decrease in oil prices and significantly affected Iraq’s economy. Iraq was heavily indebted following the Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988) and sought to alleviate its financial woes.
Territorial Claims: Iraq claimed historical rights to Kuwaiti territory, asserting that Kuwait was historically part of Iraq before British intervention in the early 20th century.
Debt and Reparations: Iraq owed substantial debts to Kuwait and other Gulf states, which it sought to have forgiven or reduced. Kuwait’s refusal to forgive these debts exacerbated tensions.
The Invasion
In the early hours of August 2, 1990, Iraqi forces swiftly moved into Kuwait, overwhelming the small Kuwaiti military. Within two days, Iraq had effectively taken control of Kuwait, declaring it a 19th province of Iraq. The invasion was met with international condemnation.
International Response
The invasion prompted a swift and decisive response from the international community:
United Nations: The UN Security Council passed Resolution 660, condemning the invasion and demanding Iraq’s immediate withdrawal from Kuwait. Subsequent resolutions imposed economic sanctions on Iraq.
United States and Coalition Forces: President George H. W. Bush led efforts to build a broad coalition to oppose Iraq’s aggression. This coalition included forces from 35 nations, with significant contributions from the United Kingdom, France, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt.
Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm
Operation Desert Shield: Initiated in August 1990, this operation involved the deployment of coalition forces to Saudi Arabia to deter further Iraqi aggression and prepare for potential military action.
Operation Desert Storm: On January 17, 1991, following Iraq’s refusal to withdraw from Kuwait, coalition forces launched a massive air campaign against Iraqi military targets. This marked the beginning of the combat phase of the Gulf War.
Liberation of Kuwait
The ground assault, which began on February 24, 1991, was swift and effective. Within 100 hours, coalition forces had liberated Kuwait, and a ceasefire was declared on February 28, 1991.
Aftermath and Significance
Humanitarian Impact: The war resulted in significant casualties and destruction, particularly in Iraq. It also led to a humanitarian crisis, with many Kuwaitis displaced and infrastructure damaged.
Regional and Global Impact: The Gulf War reshaped Middle Eastern geopolitics and demonstrated the effectiveness of international coalitions in addressing aggression. It also highlighted the strategic importance of oil and the Persian Gulf region.
Legacy for Iraq: The war left Iraq economically weakened and subject to ongoing UN sanctions, contributing to internal strife and setting the stage for future conflicts, including the Iraq War in 2003.
The Gulf War remains a pivotal moment in late 20th-century history, illustrating the complexities of international diplomacy, military strategy, and the global economy.