The International, Arab and Public Reaction to Iraq's Invasion of Kuwait and the International Coalition (1990-1991)

After Iraq's invasion of Kuwait on August 2, 1990, the Arab and international reactions were immediate. The international and Arab arenas witnessed various responses and positions, most of which were against Iraq. This eventually led to the formation of the international coalition and the subsequent war against Iraq. Some Arab countries, particularly the Gulf states, decided to seek assistance from the United States and participated in the international coalition against Iraq both politically and economically. Other countries merely condemned Iraq, while some preferred to resolve the crisis through diplomatic means with Iraq. The Iraqi invasion of Kuwait harmed international and Arab interests, especially those of the major powers in the Middle East. To contain this crisis, member states of the Security Council quickly moved to end the Iraqi invasion, condemning Iraq's actions in accordance with Security Council Resolution 660 and imposing blockade on Iraq as per Resolution 661.