1991 Gulf War - International Relations Flashcards
(8 cards)
1
Q
Invasion and conqueror of Kuwait?
A
- Saddam Hussein
- 2nd August 1990
- Claimed that Kuwait was part of Iraq’s territory
2
Q
Why did USA get involved?
A
- Worried Iraq would seize Saudi Arabia’s oil fields, giving it control of most of the world’s supply.
- US President George H.W. Bush responded by building a strong coalition against Iraq.
3
Q
Who was involved in war?
A
- US + Saudi Arabia + United Arab Emirates.
4
Q
Overview of violence?
A
- Bombing of Iraqi defences and troop concentrations began on 17th January 1991
- Ground assault 24th February 1991
- Hostilities over within 100 hours
5
Q
Britain’s role in Gulf Wars?
A
- Britain support both US and a UN resolution
- Kuwait long-standing British ally
- 53,000 servicemen to the allied coalition, third biggest military contribution.
- 47 British deaths.
6
Q
Thatcher’s role in Gulf Wars?
A
- Thatcher forced to resign before US-led invasion began.
- Her reputation for decisive defence of international law and stability was strengthened by her actions in run-up to the war.
- ‘You cannot have a situation where one country marches in and takes over another country which is a member of the United Nations’
- Told Bush ‘its no time to go wobbly’
- Thatcher wanted to act immediately (due to success at Falklands)
7
Q
RAF role?
A
- RAF planes played a significant part in the bombing campaign and British troops were also involved in the ground assault.
8
Q
Successes of the First Gulf War?
A
- Saddam Hussein allowed to maintain control of Iraq. He took revenge by persecuting his domestic enemies: Iraqi Kurds (apart of revolt)
- War seen as imperial
- Major demonstrated Britain had diplomatic influence by enlisting US and European support. Wanted to create ;safe havens’ for Kurds, guarded by allied troops and protected by allied aircraft enforcing a ‘no fly’ zone.
- Iraq continued to be an issue for Britain and USA until 2003.
