Ground Troops Enter Iraq During Gulf War
Ground troops from the coalition forces crossed the Saudi Arabian border into Iraq, marking the beginning of the ground phase of the Gulf War. This military action was aimed at liberating Kuwait, which had been invaded by Iraq in August 1990. The coalition consisted of forces from multiple countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and others, coordinated under a unified command structure. The rapid advance of ground troops was a pivotal moment in the conflict, signaling a transition from aerial bombardment to ground combat operations.
Operation Desert Storm's ground phase began.
Coalition forces swiftly advanced into Iraq.
Kuwait was liberated within 100 hours of conflict.
International coalition showcased military cooperation.
What Happened?
The ground phase of the Gulf War commenced when coalition forces crossed into Iraq from Saudi Arabia on February 24, 1991. This marked a significant escalation in the military operation that had begun with extensive aerial bombardment on January 17, aimed at dismantling Iraq's military infrastructure after its invasion of Kuwait in August 1990. The coalition forces, led by the United States under General Norman Schwarzkopf, included troops from the United Kingdom, France, and several other nations. The ground assault was meticulously planned, leveraging both air superiority from the prior weeks and a massive buildup of ground forces along the Saudi-Iraqi border.
Upon entering Iraqi territory, coalition troops encountered fierce resistance, but they leveraged superior technology and extensive training, leading to a rapid advance. The U.S. Army's use of armored divisions and strategic air support allowed for the swift liberation of Kuwait City within just 100 hours of the ground operations commencing. The operation received extensive media coverage, showcasing the precision of modern military tactics and the impact of coalition cooperation against common adversaries. The offensive also demonstrated the effectiveness of a well-coordinated multi-national effort in achieving geopolitical aims.
This ground invasion was not just a military operation but a fundamental shift in the international community's approach toward Iraqi aggression. Countries involved sent a clear message that violations of sovereignty would not be tolerated, encouraging future international coalitions to address similar global threats.
Why Does it Matter?
The ground invasion in the Gulf War is significant as it illustrated the power of international coalitions in addressing acts of aggression. The rapid and decisive victory altered perceptions of military capabilities and effectiveness, leading to changes in military strategies worldwide. It also set a precedent for future U.S. military interventions and shaped the global security environment for years following the conflict.