Iraq Declares Kuwait its 19th Province: August 28, 1990

On August 28, 1990, Iraq formally declared Kuwait to be its 19th province, a move that significantly escalated tensions in the Middle East and set the stage for the Gulf War. This declaration followed Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait earlier that month, on August 2, 1990.

Context and Prelude to the Invasion

The invasion of Kuwait by Iraq was driven by several factors:

1. Economic Strain: Iraq was heavily indebted following the Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988) and sought to alleviate its financial burdens. Kuwait’s oil wealth was seen as a potential solution to Iraq’s economic woes.

2. Oil Production Disputes: Iraq accused Kuwait of overproducing oil, which led to a decrease in oil prices and further strained Iraq’s economy. Iraq claimed that Kuwait was engaging in “economic warfare” by exceeding OPEC quotas.

3. Territorial Claims: Iraq had long-standing territorial claims over Kuwait, dating back to the Ottoman Empire. Saddam Hussein, Iraq’s president, argued that Kuwait was historically part of Iraq.

The Invasion

On August 2, 1990, Iraqi forces launched a swift invasion of Kuwait, quickly overwhelming the small nation’s defenses. The international community, led by the United Nations, condemned the invasion and demanded Iraq’s immediate withdrawal.

Declaration of Kuwait as a Province

On August 28, 1990, Iraq’s Revolutionary Command Council, led by Saddam Hussein, declared that Kuwait was now Iraq’s 19th province. This declaration was part of Iraq’s attempt to legitimize its occupation and annexation of Kuwait.

• Administrative Changes: Iraq installed a puppet government in Kuwait City and began integrating Kuwaiti infrastructure and resources into its own systems.
• International Reaction: The annexation was met with widespread condemnation. The United Nations Security Council passed several resolutions demanding Iraq’s withdrawal and imposed economic sanctions.

Consequences and Aftermath

The annexation of Kuwait by Iraq led to significant geopolitical consequences:

1. Formation of a Coalition: In response to Iraq’s actions, a coalition of countries, led by the United States, was formed to liberate Kuwait. This coalition included forces from both Western and Arab nations.

2. Operation Desert Shield: The coalition began deploying troops to the Persian Gulf region to deter further Iraqi aggression and prepare for potential military action.

3. Gulf War: The situation culminated in the Gulf War, which began in January 1991 with Operation Desert Storm. The coalition forces launched a massive air and ground campaign that successfully liberated Kuwait by the end of February 1991.

4. Long-term Impact: The Gulf War had lasting effects on the region, including the imposition of no-fly zones over Iraq, continued economic sanctions, and the eventual 2003 invasion of Iraq by a U.S.-led coalition.

The declaration of Kuwait as Iraq’s 19th province was a pivotal moment that not only intensified the conflict but also reshaped Middle Eastern geopolitics for years to come.