Key Events

Operation Desert Shield

As a result of Saddam Hussein's invasion of Kuwait, the U.S. moved to protect the border nation of Saudi Arabia in case Hussein decided attack the Saudis, who were enemies of Iraq. 500,000 American troops were sent into the nation, along with forces from NATO allies as well as Egypt and other Arab countries. Air Force fighters were placed there as well. Following the placement of all forces, President Bush called for Saddam Hussein to leave Kuwait by the 15th of January or face attack.

Operation Desert Storm

Saddam Hussein ignored the warnings of the United States, and kept his forces well within the borders of Kuwait. As a result, Desert Shield turned into Operation Desert Storm. A large air attack from U.S. and NATO forces began on January 17, with bombers and fighters targeting Iraqi military targets, including air defenses, weapons facilities and communications networks. The goal was to defeat the enemy in the air and minimize the use of ground troops as much as possible. Operations lasted for over a month, and in the process this goal was met, with Iraqi air power severely crippled.

Operation Desert Sabre

With most, if not all, of Iraq's Air Force defeated, it was time to send in the troops. Operation Desert Sabre was launched on February 24th, with coalition forces entering from Northeastern Saudi Arabia into Kuwait. Some units also circled around into Southern Iraq to defeat enemy forces from the rear. Lasting only 100 hours, Desert Storm was a victory for the Allies, with President Bush declaring a cease fire on February 28th. Bush had considered toppling Hussein's regime and occupying Baghdad, but backed down for fear that the Allies would not support it and that an occupation could possibly lead to civil war in Iraq. However, Hussein accepted the cease-fire, which included an agreement to leave Kuwait and recognize its independence, as well as a full dismantling of all of weapons of mass destruction.