Desert Storm Theme: The end of the Vietnam Syndrome

The Middle East

Background Majority of region administered by Britain until post-World War II. Long-standing disputes between Iraq and Kuwait. – Iraq argues Kuwait is an Iraqi province. Iraq mobilized and prepared for invasion in 1961 immediately after Kuwait was granted independence by Britain. – Iraq wants Kuwait to forgive debts Iraq owes from Iran-Iraq War. Claims Kuwait actually owes Iraq for “defending” it against Iran. – Iraq accuses Kuwait of overproduction of oil/theft of Iraqi oil. On Aug 2, 1990, Iraq invaded Kuwait

Coalition Operations The end of the Cold War and Russia’s willingness to join the US in opposing Iraq created an unprecedented level of international cooperation The United Nations adopted resolutions condemning Iraq and authorizing the use of force Thirty-six countries (as well as Kuwait) contributed forces

Combat Operations 17 Jan Air war begins 23 Feb - Ground war begins 28 Feb – Cease fire takes effect 2 March – 24th Infantry Division fights last engagement of the war 3 March – Norman Schwarzkopf accepts Iraqi surrender at Safwan

Iraq The objective of Desert Storm was to liberate Kuwait, not to destroy the Iraqi army or remove Saddam Even though the coalition experienced amazing military success, Saddam remained in power and crushed short-lived uprisings by the Kurds in the north and the Shia in the south Iraqi Freedom would have the objective of changing the regime in Iraq

Key Terms George H. W. Bush: Saddam Hussein: Operation Desert Storm: Persian Gulf War: