The Gulf War was a conflict that took place from 1990 to 1991, primarily involving Iraq and a coalition of countries led by the United States. The war began when Iraq, under the leadership of Saddam Hussein, invaded Kuwait in August 1990, claiming it as part of its territory. This invasion prompted international condemnation and the formation of a coalition to liberate Kuwait. In January 1991, the coalition launched a military operation known as Operation Desert Storm, which aimed to expel Iraqi forces from Kuwait. The conflict lasted about six weeks and ended with a decisive victory for the coalition, restoring Kuwait's sovereignty and significantly weakening Iraq's military capabilities.