The result of the first Gulf War, which occurred from 1990 to 1991, was a decisive victory for the coalition forces led by the United States against Iraq. The war was initiated following Iraq's invasion of Kuwait in August 1990. Operation Desert Storm, launched in January 1991, successfully liberated Kuwait within a few weeks. Following this conflict, Iraq was subjected to strict economic sanctions and military restrictions, significantly impairing its military capabilities. The war also reshaped political dynamics in the Middle East, establishing the U.S. as a dominant power in the region.