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Ultimatum by the UN
The United Nations determined that Iraq could not be allowed to continue its control of Kuwait. It passed Resolution 678, which demanded Iraq withdraw, or they would face military action. -
Iraq invades Kuwait
Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein ordered the invasion and occupation of neighboring Kuwait in early August 1990. Alarmed by these actions, fellow Arab powers such as Saudi Arabia and Egypt called on the United States and other Western nations to intervene. Hussein defied United Nations Security Council demands to withdraw from Kuwait by mid-January 1991, and the Persian Gulf War began with a massive U.S.-led air offensive known as Operation Desert Storm. -
Other Countries join the fight
The USA's presence didn't intimidate Saddam Hussein, and he continued his annexation of Kuwait. The United Kingdom and France joined America in sending troops to fight against Iraq. -
Operation: Desert Storm
The United States officially launched Operation Desert Storm. Apache helicopters and warplanes attacked Baghdad and other military targets in Iraq. -
Iraq fights back
Saddam Hussein ordered the destruction of Kuwaiti oil wells. He blew up several oil wells, then pumped millions of gallons of oil into the Persian Gulf. -
Americans have a Victory
The Battle of Khafji was fought between American and Iraqi forces. The Iraqis were driven out of Saudi Arabia for an American victory. -
Ground War Begins
Following intense air battle and the deployment of ground troops, ground war began in Kuwait. The Battle of Kafjhi was the first major ground combat. This was part of Operation: Desert Storm. -
Cease-fire takes effect and offensive operations end
U.S. President George H.W. Bush declared a ceasefire, ending the war. Kuwait had been liberated from Iraq.
