As an expert in military history, I can provide a detailed account of the leadership during the critical period of Operation Desert Storm. The United States was led by a president who was known for his strong foreign policy stance and his ability to forge international alliances. This president was none other than George H. W. Bush, who served as the 41st President of the United States from 1989 to 1993.

George H. W. Bush played a pivotal role in responding to the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait, which occurred on August 2, 1990. Saddam Hussein, the then-president of Iraq, had ordered the invasion with the apparent aim of acquiring Kuwait's oil reserves, among other strategic interests. This move not only threatened the stability of the Middle East but also posed significant economic and security risks to the global community.

In the face of this crisis, President Bush acted swiftly to build an international coalition to address the situation. This coalition included not only NATO allies but also Middle Eastern countries such as Saudi Arabia, Syria, and Egypt. The international response was a testament to the diplomatic efforts of Bush's administration, which managed to secure United Nations resolutions condemning Iraq's actions and authorizing the use of force if necessary.

The operation, which began on January 17, 1991, was a comprehensive air campaign aimed at weakening Iraqi defenses and degrading its military capabilities. This phase of the operation was known as Operation Desert Shield, which was later transitioned into Operation Desert Storm. The transition marked the shift from a defensive to an offensive posture, with the goal of liberating Kuwait from Iraqi occupation.

President Bush's decision to use military force was not taken lightly. He was well aware of the potential costs and was committed to ensuring that the conflict would not escalate into another Vietnam. This commitment was reflected in his public address on January 16, 1991, where he outlined the objectives of the operation and reassured the American people that the military action was a necessary step to protect international peace and security.

The operation was a success, with the coalition forces effectively pushing back Iraqi forces and liberating Kuwait within a short period. The swift victory was a result of the strategic planning and the overwhelming force applied by the coalition, which adhered to the principles outlined by General Colin Powell, known as the Powell Doctrine.

In conclusion, George H. W. Bush was the U.S. President during Operation Desert Storm, and his leadership was instrumental in the formation of the international coalition that responded to the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait. His administration's diplomatic efforts, strategic planning, and commitment to a clear and limited military objective marked a significant moment in modern military history.

read more >>

Operation Desert Storm: 25 Years Since the First Gulf War. On January 16, 1991, President George H. W. Bush announced the start of what would be called Operation Desert Storm--a military operation to expel occupying Iraqi forces from Kuwait, which Iraq had invaded and annexed months earlier.Jan 14, 2016read more >>