Iraq Occupies Kuwait: August 8, 1990

On August 8, 1990, Iraq declared Kuwait as its 19th province, a move that followed its invasion of the small, oil-rich nation on August 2, 1990. This aggressive act by Iraq, led by President Saddam Hussein, drew swift international condemnation and set the stage for the Gulf War.

Background

The invasion of Kuwait by Iraq was rooted in a complex mix of historical grievances, economic disputes, and geopolitical ambitions:

• Historical Claims: Iraq had long-standing territorial claims over Kuwait, dating back to the Ottoman Empire. Saddam Hussein argued that Kuwait was historically part of Iraq.

• Economic Factors: Iraq was heavily indebted following the Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988) and accused Kuwait of overproducing oil, which lowered prices and harmed Iraq’s economy. Iraq also claimed that Kuwait was illegally siphoning oil from the Rumaila oil field, which straddles the Iraq-Kuwait border.

• Geopolitical Ambitions: By annexing Kuwait, Iraq aimed to gain control over a significant portion of the world’s oil reserves, thereby increasing its influence in the region and globally.

The Invasion

On August 2, 1990, Iraqi forces launched a swift and decisive invasion of Kuwait. Within two days, Iraqi troops had taken control of the country, and the Kuwaiti royal family had fled to Saudi Arabia. On August 8, Iraq formally annexed Kuwait, declaring it as its 19th province.

International Response

The international community reacted strongly to Iraq’s actions:

• United Nations: The United Nations Security Council quickly condemned the invasion and passed Resolution 660, demanding Iraq’s immediate withdrawal from Kuwait. Subsequent resolutions imposed economic sanctions on Iraq.

• United States and Coalition Forces: The United States, under President George H. W. Bush, led the formation of a multinational coalition to oppose Iraq’s aggression. The coalition included forces from over 30 countries, including the United Kingdom, France, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt.

The Gulf War

The refusal of Iraq to withdraw from Kuwait led to the Gulf War, also known as Operation Desert Storm:

• Operation Desert Shield: Initially, coalition forces were deployed to protect Saudi Arabia from potential Iraqi aggression.

• Operation Desert Storm: On January 17, 1991, the coalition launched a massive air campaign against Iraqi forces, followed by a ground assault on February 24, 1991. The operation swiftly liberated Kuwait, with Iraqi forces retreating by February 28, 1991.

Aftermath and Significance

• Kuwait’s Liberation: Kuwait was liberated, and its sovereignty was restored. The ruling Al-Sabah family returned to power.

• Iraq’s Isolation: Iraq faced severe economic sanctions and international isolation. The war significantly weakened Iraq’s military capabilities and infrastructure.

• Regional Impact: The Gulf War reshaped Middle Eastern geopolitics, reinforcing U.S. influence in the region and highlighting the strategic importance of oil.

• Legacy: The conflict set the stage for future tensions, including the 2003 Iraq War, as unresolved issues and suspicions lingered between Iraq and the international community.

The events of August 8, 1990, and the subsequent Gulf War remain pivotal in understanding the dynamics of Middle Eastern politics and international relations in the late 20th century.