The Gulf War 30 Years Later: Successes, Failures, and Blind Spots

Overview

• The Gulf War (1990-1991) is often seen as a success for the United States.
• It involved a united international effort to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi invasion.
• The U.S. used diplomatic, informational, military, and economic power to achieve its objectives.
• Celebrated for its quick success and demonstration of military capabilities, seen as a "revolution in military affairs."

Key Points

Background

• On August 2, 1990, Iraq invaded Kuwait under Saddam Hussein.
• Iraq's actions posed a threat to global oil reserves and U.S. interests.
• The UN condemned Iraq's aggression and imposed an embargo.
• U.S. forces deployed to Saudi Arabia, starting Operation Desert Shield.
• By November, additional U.S. forces prepared for possible offensive actions.
• Operation Desert Storm began on January 17, 1991, with airstrikes followed by a ground offensive.
• A coalition led by the U.S. removed Iraqi forces and restored Kuwaiti sovereignty.

Successes

• Prewar U.S. strategy effectively isolated Iraq and built a coalition.
• Limited policy aims were well-matched with military capabilities.
• Effective cooperation among U.S. military branches, strengthened by the 1986 Goldwater-Nichols Defense Reform Act.
• Restraint in military operations prevented overextending past victory.
• U.S. demonstrated precision munitions and long-range strike capabilities seen as groundbreaking.

Deficiencies

• Failed to establish a durable regional security order after the war.
• Cautious operational approaches led to incomplete military objectives.
• Persistent survival of Saddam's regime was a significant oversight.
• Lacked foresight on necessary actions for long-term policy goals.

Blowback and Blind Spots

• Showcased U.S. military dominance but led to "victory disease" or hubris.
• Encouraged adversaries like Russia and China to develop asymmetric strategies.
• Prompted some nations to seek nuclear capabilities as a counterbalance.
• U.S. intervention in the Middle East led to long-term consequences, including motivating figures like Osama bin Laden.

Conclusion

• The Gulf War was a significant military success for the U.S.
• It demonstrated effective use of diplomatic, informational, military, and economic power.
• However, it highlighted gaps in war termination and post-war strategy.
• It remains a subject of study for its successes and lessons in shortcomings.