The French position on the Iraqi occupation of Kuwait 1990-1991

Abstract

France, with its extensive interests in the Arab Gulf region and close relations with Iraq, took a particular stance on Iraq's occupation of Kuwait in August 1990. France initially sought to resolve the crisis peacefully, aiming to preserve its own interests and maintain Iraq as a market for French weapons. However, with the escalation of the war and under pressure from the United States, France was compelled to join the conflict as part of the allied forces. The war resulted in Iraq's defeat, causing France to lose its weapons importer, but it managed to consolidate its interests in the Arab Gulf region. This research highlights the significance of France's role in attempting to end the crisis through peaceful means and examines the divergence of views within the French government regarding participation in the war and its outcomes, which ultimately favored France. The keywords for this study include France, Kuwait, the Second Gulf War, the French position on the Second Gulf War, and the Iraqi occupation of Kuwait.