As clouds of a potential war with Iraq loom over Kuwait, the government of this country announced that Kuwaiti forces will be on full alert starting Saturday. Sheikh Mohammed Al-Sabah, the Minister of Interior of Kuwait, told reporters today that a joint force of police, army, and national guard will establish new checkpoints and increase the number of patrol units for the protection of the country. Earlier this week, Tariq Aziz, the Deputy Prime Minister of Iraq, warned that if the United States uses Kuwaiti territory as a base for a potential war against Iraq, Iraqi forces might attack Kuwait. The U.S. has sent tens of thousands of its soldiers to Kuwait. Iraq invaded Kuwait in August 1990 and occupied it until early 1991 when it was expelled by U.S.-led coalition forces.
Kuwaiti Forces to Be on Full Alert Starting Saturday - 2003-01-30
Kuwait is preparing for potential conflict with Iraq by placing its forces on full alert starting Saturday. This decision follows warnings from Iraq regarding possible U.S. military actions from Kuwaiti territory. The situation is critical as it echoes historical tensions from the 1990 invasion of Kuwait by Iraq.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
Kuwait has placed its military forces on full alert in response to threats from Iraq regarding potential U.S. military actions from its territory. This decision reflects the ongoing tensions in the region as Kuwait prepares for possible conflict.
- Kuwait's forces will establish new checkpoints and increase patrols.
- Iraq has threatened to attack Kuwait if it is used as a base for U.S. operations.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Kuwait was invaded by Iraq in 1990, leading to a U.S.-led coalition intervention that expelled Iraqi forces. The historical animosities and territorial disputes continue to shape current relations.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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