The term "Gulf Wars" typically refers to two major conflicts involving Iraq and a coalition of countries led by the United States. The first conflict, known as the Gulf War, occurred from 1990 to 1991 when Iraq, under the leadership of Saddam Hussein, invaded Kuwait. A coalition of nations intervened to liberate Kuwait, resulting in a decisive victory for the coalition forces. The second conflict, often referred to as the Iraq War, began in 2003 when the U.S. and its allies invaded Iraq based on claims that the country possessed weapons of mass destruction. This war led to the overthrow of Saddam Hussein but resulted in prolonged instability and conflict in the region.