gulf war
 · 2 min read
 · Rowan Atkinsonia
Table of contents

Key Resolutions Passed by the United Nations During the Gulf War

Introduction

The Gulf War, which took place from 1990 to 1991, was a significant conflict prompted by Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait. The United Nations (UN) played a crucial role during this period, utilizing its platform to pass key resolutions aimed at restoring peace and ensuring international security. This article delves into the pivotal resolutions adopted by the UN Security Council during the Gulf War and their respective impacts.

Details

  • United Nations Security Council Resolution 660 (August 2, 1990)

    • Addressed Iraq's invasion of Kuwait.
    • Condemned the invasion and demanded an immediate withdrawal of Iraqi troops from Kuwait.
    • Established that the occupation was a violation of international law.

  • United Nations Security Council Resolution 661 (August 6, 1990)

    • Imposed comprehensive economic sanctions on Iraq.
    • Restricted trade, financial resources, and arms exports to Iraq.
    • Aimed to pressure the Iraqi government to comply with Resolution 660.

  • United Nations Security Council Resolution 678 (November 29, 1990)

    • Authorized member states to use "all necessary means" to expel Iraqi forces from Kuwait and restore the sovereignty of Kuwait.
    • Provided a deadline of January 15, 1991, for Iraq to comply.
    • Formed the legal basis for the coalition military action known as Operation Desert Storm.

  • United Nations Security Council Resolution 687 (April 3, 1991)

    • Ceased hostilities and confirmed the end of the Gulf War.
    • Called for the establishment of a formal ceasefire.
    • Mandated the destruction of Iraq’s weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and established monitoring mechanisms.
      • Required Iraq to submit to inspections by the UN Special Commission (UNSCOM).
      • Established a framework for compensation to be paid to Kuwait for the damages suffered due to the invasion.

  • United Nations Security Council Resolution 688 (April 5, 1991)

    • Addressed the humanitarian crisis arising from the conflict.
    • Called for the protection of the Iraqi civilian population from repression.
    • Emphasized the need for unhindered access for humanitarian assistance.

  • United Nations Security Council Resolution 949 (October 1994)

    • Reaffirmed that Iraq remained in violation of previous resolutions regarding WMD and that sanctions would stay in place until full compliance.
    • Made it clear that Iraq's conduct regarding disarmament would be closely monitored.

  • United Nations Security Council Resolution 1000 (July 1995)

    • Followed up on the impartial assessments of Iraq's disarmament and compliance with earlier resolutions.
    • Expressed concerns over continued Iraqi defiance but acknowledged some compliance with the inspections.

Conclusion

The resolutions passed by the United Nations during the Gulf War were pivotal in both condemning Iraq's actions and establishing a framework for conflict resolution and post-war rebuilding. From economic sanctions and military authorization to stipulations for disarmament and humanitarian protections, these resolutions not only shaped the dynamics of the Gulf War itself but also set a precedent for future international responses to aggression. The legacy of these actions continues to influence global security policies to this day.