Iraq

Definition

Iraq is a country in Western Asia, located between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, and has been significant in global politics, especially during the late 20th century. In the context of the Gulf War, Iraq, under the leadership of President Saddam Hussein, invaded Kuwait in 1990, which led to a large-scale military conflict involving a coalition of countries led by the United States. The invasion sparked international condemnation and resulted in the deployment of U.S. forces to the region to liberate Kuwait and stabilize the Gulf area.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The invasion of Kuwait by Iraq on August 2, 1990, was driven by Saddam Hussein's desire for greater control over oil resources and economic dominance in the region.
2. The United Nations responded to Iraq's invasion by imposing economic sanctions and demanding Iraqi withdrawal from Kuwait, which was largely ignored by Hussein.
3. The U.S.-led coalition consisted of over 30 nations, including Saudi Arabia, the UK, and France, showcasing significant international support against Iraqi aggression.
4. Operation Desert Shield was the buildup of coalition forces in Saudi Arabia prior to Operation Desert Storm, with the goal of deterring further Iraqi advances into neighboring countries.
5. The Gulf War officially ended on February 28, 1991, after a swift victory for coalition forces that liberated Kuwait and left Iraq significantly weakened.

Review Questions

• What were the main reasons behind Iraq's invasion of Kuwait in 1990?
  • Iraq's invasion of Kuwait was primarily motivated by Saddam Hussein's desire to gain control over Kuwait's vast oil reserves and enhance Iraq's economic power in the region. Hussein also claimed that Kuwait was overproducing oil, which was hurting Iraq's economy post-Iran-Iraq War. This aggressive expansionist policy led to heightened tensions and ultimately drew international condemnation.
• How did the United Nations respond to Iraq's actions during the Gulf War?
  • The United Nations responded to Iraq's invasion of Kuwait by imposing economic sanctions aimed at crippling its economy and calling for an immediate withdrawal from Kuwait. The UN Security Council passed several resolutions condemning Iraq’s actions and authorizing the use of force if Iraq did not comply with the demands. This led to the formation of a coalition to take military action against Iraq when diplomatic efforts failed.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of the Gulf War on Iraq and its leadership under Saddam Hussein.
  • The Gulf War had profound long-term implications for Iraq, leading to widespread devastation of its infrastructure and economy due to both military action and subsequent sanctions. Although Saddam Hussein remained in power after the war, his regime faced increased internal dissent and regional isolation. The war also set a precedent for future U.S. intervention in the Middle East, ultimately contributing to ongoing conflicts in the region and shaping U.S.-Iraq relations for years to come.

Related terms

Saddam Hussein: The president of Iraq from 1979 until his ousting in 2003, known for his authoritarian rule and aggressive military actions.

Operation Desert Storm: The combat phase of the Gulf War that began in January 1991, where coalition forces launched a large-scale air and ground campaign against Iraq.

UN Security Council: The body of the United Nations responsible for maintaining international peace and security, which imposed sanctions on Iraq following its invasion of Kuwait.