The correct spelling of the major conflict in the early 1990s between Iraq and a coalition of Western countries is "the Gulf War." In IPA phonetic transcription, this can be written as /ðə ɡʌlf wɔːr/. The word "Gulf" is pronounced with a voiced velar fricative, represented by the symbol "/ɡ/", and a central vowel, represented by "/ʌ/". The word "war" is pronounced with a voiced alveolar approximant, represented by "/w/", and an open back unrounded vowel, represented by "/ɔː/".
The Gulf War refers to a major armed conflict that transpired between August 1990 and February 1991, primarily involving the forces of Iraq and an international coalition led by the United States. The conflict was triggered by Iraq's invasion and annexation of Kuwait, which was unlawful and internationally condemned as a flagrant act of aggression. The Gulf War was characterized by large-scale military operations and aerial bombardments conducted by coalition forces, aimed at liberating Kuwait and ensuring regional stability.
The war witnessed the deployment of substantial military might, including ground forces, naval units, and air power. The coalition forces, composed of troops from various nations, employed advanced weaponry and strategic tactics to counter Iraq's aggression. The air campaign involved extensive aerial strikes on Iraqi military installations and infrastructure, while the ground war comprised both rapid and extensive armored assaults. It culminated in the liberation of Kuwait and the expulsion of Iraqi forces from the country.
The Gulf War showcased the importance of international cooperation and highlighted the role of the United Nations in addressing global conflicts. It also underscored the significance of securing regional stability and protecting the sovereignty of nations against aggression. The outcome of the Gulf War had far-reaching consequences, such as the imposition of economic sanctions on Iraq, the establishment of no-fly zones, and subsequent military interventions in the region. It remains a significant event in modern history, both for its military dimensions and its geopolitical impact on the Middle East.