Coalition forces concluded the Gulf War on February 28, 1991, bringing to a close a conflict that would leave a lasting imprint on both global politics and the evolution of military strategy. Far more than just a battlefield triumph, this decisive moment represented a fundamental shift in how nations would approach armed conflict going forward, driven by cutting-edge technology and an extraordinary level of international unity.

Iraq's invasion of Kuwait in August 1990 set the stage for everything that followed, sparking the formation of a broad international coalition that launched Operation Desert Storm in response. What unfolded was a conflict defined by precision strikes, sophisticated new technologies, and a remarkably coordinated global effort — ushering in what many recognized as a new chapter in modern warfare. A sweeping air campaign paved the way for a rapid ground offensive that drove Iraqi forces into retreat and restored Kuwait's sovereignty. The speed of the victory not only preserved countless lives but also had far-reaching consequences for how military operations and geopolitical strategies would be conceived in the years ahead. Above all, the conclusion of the Gulf War highlighted what nations could achieve when they worked together, establishing a powerful template for international military cooperation in conflicts yet to come.

Fun Facts:

  • The ground campaign lasted only 100 hours, showcasing the efficiency and precision of modern military tactics.
  • The conflict highlighted revolutionary technologies transforming warfare, including stealth aircraft and precision-guided munitions.
  • The Gulf War was one of the first conflicts to be broadcast live on 24-hour news channels, bringing the realities of war directly into the public eye.
  • More than 30 countries joined forces, demonstrating unprecedented international military cooperation.
  • The strategies and outcomes of the Gulf War continue to exert a profound influence on global military doctrine and international relations today, underscoring the enduring legacy of this conflict.