When did the Gulf War end? This question is often asked in relation to one of the most significant conflicts of the late 20th century. The Gulf War, also known as the First Gulf War or Operation Desert Storm, concluded on February 28, 1991, following a series of military operations aimed at liberating Kuwait from Iraqi occupation.
The Gulf War began on August 2, 1990, when Iraqi forces invaded Kuwait, a small oil-rich nation in the Persian Gulf region. This aggressive action was met with international condemnation and triggered a swift response from the United Nations Security Council. The UN imposed economic sanctions on Iraq and authorized member states to use force to expel Iraqi troops from Kuwait.
The United States, along with its allies, launched Operation Desert Storm on January 17, 1991. The coalition forces employed a massive air campaign, followed by a ground offensive, to push Iraqi forces out of Kuwait. The war lasted for 42 days, with the ground offensive commencing on February 24, 1991. By February 28, the Iraqi army had been driven out of Kuwait, and the conflict officially ended.
The Gulf War had a profound impact on the region and the world. It marked the first major conflict fought entirely with advanced technology and precision-guided weapons. The war also highlighted the importance of oil as a strategic resource and the role of the United States as a global superpower. Additionally, the conflict led to the establishment of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) as a military alliance to counter potential threats in the region.
Despite the swift victory, the Gulf War left a lasting legacy of instability in the Middle East. The conflict reignited tensions between the United States and Iraq, which would eventually lead to the second Gulf War in 2003. Moreover, the war sparked debates about the use of force in international relations and the role of the United Nations in maintaining global peace and security.
In conclusion, the Gulf War ended on February 28, 1991, following a successful coalition effort to liberate Kuwait. The conflict had far-reaching consequences and remains a significant event in modern history.
