Kuwait City: With the annual arrival of February 26, Kuwaitis commemorate the sacrifices made by heroes, the wounded, and martyrs during the Iraqi invasion of 1990, which led to the liberation of their country in 1991. This remembrance serves as a historical reminder of the national unity and the epic struggle for freedom that is etched in the annals of Kuwait's history.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the memory of the invasion and subsequent liberation remains vivid among Kuwaitis, marking a period when their country's sovereignty was challenged on August 2, 1990. This invasion aimed to overthrow Kuwait's legitimacy, defying international norms and laws, and had significant repercussions on regional and global levels.
On the anniversary of liberation, Kuwaitis honor the martyrs who laid down their lives for the freedom and independence of their nation. They also acknowledge the contributions of brotherly and friendly countries that played crucial roles in the liberation war, showcasing deep bonds of friendship and cooperation.
During the invasion, Kuwaitis demonstrated remarkable loyalty and resilience, standing firm with their legitimate leadership under the late Amir Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. The leadership made extensive efforts to rally international support and restore Kuwait's freedom, mobilizing efforts at international forums to expel the occupiers.
The late Amir Sheikh Jaber Al-Sabah's historic address at the United Nations emphasized Kuwait's commitment to peace and highlighted the plight of his nation. He depicted Kuwait as a beacon of peaceful coexistence that was under threat, yet resilient against occupation.
Efforts by GCC countries led to an emergency Arab summit in Cairo on August 10, 1990, following meetings of Arab and Islamic foreign ministers. These diplomatic efforts, along with contributions from brotherly and friendly countries, resulted in a series of Security Council resolutions condemning the invasion and calling for withdrawal.
Security Council Resolution 678, issued on November 29, 1990, authorized necessary measures to restore peace and security, leading to Kuwait's liberation in February 1991. The military and diplomatic support of coalition countries played a pivotal role in achieving this outcome.
The late Amir Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Al-Salem Al-Sabah and the late Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah were instrumental in defending Kuwaiti rights and garnering international support. Their leadership was crucial in securing global sympathy and support for Kuwait's cause.
Kuwaitis remember with gratitude the support of the late King Fahad bin Abdulaziz and other GCC leaders, as well as the decisive support from the late US President George H.W. Bush. The coalition led by the United States was vital in reversing the invasion and restoring Kuwait's independence.
The international coalition's efforts, combined with the steadfast belief in Kuwaiti justice, led to the country regaining its legitimacy in February 1991. This marked the beginning of a new era of reconstruction and development for Kuwait under its rightful leadership.