Gulf War

Definition

The Gulf War refers to the conflict that took place from 1990 to 1991, primarily between Iraq and a coalition of forces led by the United States, following Iraq's invasion of Kuwait. This war marked a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy and military engagement in the Middle East, highlighting the end of the Cold War's bipolar world and ushering in a new era of American dominance in international affairs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Gulf War began on August 2, 1990, when Iraq, led by Saddam Hussein, invaded Kuwait, claiming it as its 19th province.
2. The conflict saw a large coalition of countries, including the U.S., UK, France, and several Arab nations, come together under the banner of the United Nations to oppose Iraq's aggression.
3. The war ended on February 28, 1991, with a decisive victory for coalition forces, leading to the liberation of Kuwait and significant damage to Iraq's military infrastructure.
4. One of the key technological advancements showcased during the Gulf War was the use of precision-guided munitions, also known as 'smart bombs,' which revolutionized modern warfare.
5. The aftermath of the Gulf War saw ongoing tensions in the region, including sanctions against Iraq and the establishment of no-fly zones, which contributed to future conflicts and instability.

Review Questions

• What were the major factors that led to the outbreak of the Gulf War in 1990?
  • Several factors contributed to the outbreak of the Gulf War in 1990. Iraq's economic troubles following the Iran-Iraq War led Saddam Hussein to seek financial support by invading Kuwait, which had rich oil reserves. Additionally, Iraq accused Kuwait of overproducing oil and driving prices down, which further strained its economy. The invasion was also fueled by regional dynamics and perceived weaknesses in international responses to aggression after the Cold War.
• Evaluate how the Gulf War reshaped U.S. foreign policy in relation to Middle Eastern nations after the Cold War.
  • The Gulf War significantly reshaped U.S. foreign policy towards Middle Eastern nations by establishing a precedent for American military intervention in regional conflicts. The success of coalition forces demonstrated U.S. military capabilities and reinforced its role as a global leader capable of assembling international coalitions. Post-war, America positioned itself as a key player in Middle Eastern geopolitics, influencing future engagements and policies aimed at stabilizing or intervening in conflicts throughout the region.
• Assess the long-term consequences of the Gulf War on Iraq and its impact on subsequent U.S.-Middle Eastern relations.
  • The long-term consequences of the Gulf War on Iraq were profound, as it led to economic sanctions that crippled its economy and left a legacy of resentment towards the United States. The war established a cycle of conflict and instability in Iraq, culminating in the 2003 invasion. This ongoing turmoil affected U.S.-Middle Eastern relations by fostering anti-American sentiment across many nations, as well as complicating diplomatic efforts and leading to further military engagements in the region over subsequent decades.

Related terms

Operation Desert Shield: The initial phase of the Gulf War, where U.S. and coalition forces were deployed to defend Saudi Arabia against a potential Iraqi invasion.

Operation Desert Storm: The combat phase of the Gulf War, launched in January 1991, aimed at liberating Kuwait from Iraqi occupation through a massive air and ground offensive.

UN Security Council Resolutions: A series of resolutions passed by the United Nations that condemned Iraq's invasion of Kuwait and authorized the use of force to remove Iraqi troops.