On 2 August 1990, Iraqi Air Force aircraft bombed Kuwaiti air bases, leading to a swift invasion by Iraqi Republican Guards. This marked the beginning of the Gulf War, or II Persian Gulf War, fought from January to March 1991. Despite initial challenges, Iraqi forces occupied Kuwait within days. However, President Saddam Hussein underestimated the response from Western superpowers, which would lead to severe repercussions for Iraq. Fearing further Iraqi advances into Saudi Arabia, the USA, along with Great Britain, France, and local allies, mobilized substantial military forces to the Middle East. Months of unsuccessful negotiations and escalating military presence, termed Operation Desert Shield, ensued as tensions mounted. Saddam Hussein, despite warnings from his generals, dismissed calls for withdrawal, while the USA and its allies, known as the Coalition, remained resolute in their goal to expel the invaders and restore Kuwait's sovereignty. Ultimately, the Coalition determined that military action was necessary. Following a United Nations authorization, they initiated Operation Desert Storm on 17 January 1991, unleashing one of the most intense air campaigns in history.
