Operation Northern Watch was a military operation conducted by NATO from 1997 to 2003. Its primary goal was to enforce the no-fly zone over northern Iraq following the Gulf War. This operation aimed to protect the Kurdish population from potential attacks by the Iraqi government. The operation involved surveillance and air patrols to ensure compliance with the no-fly zone. It was a response to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region and aimed to deter Iraqi military actions against the Kurdish people. Operation Northern Watch was part of broader efforts to stabilize the area after years of conflict.