Operation Southern Watch was a military operation conducted by the United States and coalition forces from 1992 to 2003. Its primary objective was to enforce the no-fly zone over southern Iraq following the Gulf War. This operation aimed to protect the Kurdish population from potential attacks by the Iraqi government. The operation involved regular air patrols and surveillance missions to deter Iraqi military actions against civilians. It was part of a broader strategy to maintain stability in the region and support humanitarian efforts, while also ensuring compliance with United Nations resolutions regarding Iraq.