Operation Desert Storm: Ground Phase Begins

On February 23, 1991, the ground phase of Operation Desert Storm commenced as coalition forces crossed the Saudi Arabian border into Iraq and Kuwait. This marked a pivotal moment in the Gulf War, following a six-week aerial bombardment campaign aimed at weakening Iraqi defenses and infrastructure.

Context and Prelude

The Gulf War originated from Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait on August 2, 1990. Led by President Saddam Hussein, Iraq’s aggressive move was met with international condemnation and the formation of a coalition force under the United Nations’ mandate. The coalition, spearheaded by the United States and including forces from 34 countries, sought to liberate Kuwait and ensure regional stability.

Operation Desert Shield

Before the ground assault, Operation Desert Shield was launched to protect Saudi Arabia and deter further Iraqi aggression. This operation involved the deployment of hundreds of thousands of troops to the region, establishing a formidable military presence.

Aerial Campaign

On January 17, 1991, Operation Desert Storm began with an extensive aerial bombardment. The coalition’s air forces targeted Iraqi command and control centers, communication lines, and military infrastructure. This phase aimed to degrade Iraq’s ability to wage war and soften its defenses in preparation for the ground invasion.

The Ground Offensive

The ground phase, often referred to as the “100-hour war,” was a swift and decisive operation. It began on February 23, 1991, with coalition forces executing a well-coordinated assault:

• Main Forces: The coalition’s ground troops, numbering over 500,000, included U.S. Army and Marine Corps units, alongside British, French, Saudi, and other allied forces.
• Tactics: Employing a “left hook” strategy, the coalition forces bypassed heavily fortified Iraqi positions in Kuwait, advancing through the desert to encircle and cut off Iraqi forces.
• Key Objectives: The primary goals were to liberate Kuwait City, destroy the Iraqi Republican Guard, and secure strategic locations to prevent further Iraqi resistance.

Outcome and Aftermath

The ground offensive achieved rapid success, with coalition forces liberating Kuwait City by February 27, 1991. The operation resulted in a decisive victory for the coalition, with minimal casualties compared to Iraqi losses.

Consequences

• Iraqi Withdrawal: Iraq announced its withdrawal from Kuwait, and a ceasefire was declared on February 28, 1991.
• Political Impact: The war significantly altered the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, reinforcing U.S. influence in the region.
• Humanitarian Concerns: The conflict led to significant civilian casualties and environmental damage, particularly due to oil well fires set by retreating Iraqi forces.

The success of the ground phase of Operation Desert Storm underscored the effectiveness of coalition military strategy and marked a turning point in modern warfare, showcasing the integration of advanced technology and multinational cooperation.