35th Anniversary of Kuwait’s Invasion: Gulf Unity, a Vital Pillar in Facing Regional Challenges

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Gulf solidarity remains a powerful lesson and a fundamental pillar in confronting challenges, as the region marks the 35th anniversary of Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait this Saturday.

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This painful memory offers valuable lessons, one of which was highlighted by Dr. Anwar Gargash, Diplomatic Adviser to the UAE President, in a post shared on “X”. Chief among them is the unwavering importance of putting the homeland first.

“Invasion and brutal occupation of sisterly Kuwait was a turning point in the collective consciousness of an entire generation in the Gulf. We learned to always prioritize the homeland, to never fall for hollow slogans, and to rely on Gulf unity as our true support,” Gargash wrote.

“In this 35th remembrance of the invasion, we are in urgent need of reinforcing this awareness among younger generations,” he added.

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The Gulf’s Crucial Role

This anniversary comes as Kuwait currently chairs the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), having hosted the 45th Gulf Summit last December, in its continued efforts to bolster Gulf unity.

Kuwaitis draw from this historic experience the importance of Arab and Gulf solidarity. During the occupation, the Kuwaiti leadership operated from GCC capitals, conducting strategic diplomatic efforts that eventually led to international intervention and the country’s liberation.

UAE-Kuwait: Bonds Strengthened by Sacrifice

This anniversary also coincides with a deepening of UAE-Kuwaiti relations. These historical brotherly ties continue to grow, driven by a shared commitment to mutual prosperity.

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This progress was evident in the June visit of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan to Kuwait, during which 14 key agreements were signed. It followed the high-profile state visit of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed in November 2023, which received exceptional official and public welcome.

Kuwaitis still recall with gratitude the UAE’s heroic stance during the 1990 invasion. The UAE armed forces stood firmly beside Kuwait, with eight martyrs and 21 wounded Emirati soldiers. The founding father, Sheikh Zayed, famously said: “If any calamity befalls Kuwait, we are bound to stand by it, whatever the circumstances. This is a duty rooted in our closeness and fraternity.”

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Beware of Hollow Slogans

Dr. Gargash also warned of the dangers of false rhetoric and political exploitation — an increasingly relevant concern amid rising disinformation campaigns.

He reaffirmed the UAE’s success in focusing on concrete development and nation-building: “Consistent work and steady progress remain the UAE’s path. Nations are built with vision, values, and determination. Numbers and results speak louder than doubt and cynicism.”

The UAE exemplifies this approach in its humanitarian response to the Gaza crisis, becoming the world’s largest aid donor to Gaza — with contributions surpassing $1.5 billion and accounting for 44% of global assistance, according to the UN.

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Homeland First, Always

The ultimate lesson from this experience is the sacred value of protecting one’s homeland. During the invasion, the Kuwaiti people demonstrated unparalleled unity and resilience in defending their sovereignty.

The anniversary also honors the wise leadership of the late Emir Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah and Crown Prince Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah, who successfully mobilized regional and global support to restore Kuwait’s rightful sovereignty.

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On January 17, 1991, the US-led coalition launched Operation Desert Storm, culminating in Kuwait’s liberation on February 26. The UAE was the first to raise its flag again on its embassy in Kuwait, and Sheikh Zayed was the first head of state to visit the liberated nation.

This 35th anniversary is a solemn occasion to reaffirm our commitment to unity, loyalty, and a peaceful future founded on shared history and enduring values.

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