Highway of death in operation desert storm

 The Highway of Death in Operation Desert Storm: A Detailed Analysis

Introduction

The Highway of Death refers to Highway 80, the main road connecting Kuwait City to Basra, Iraq, where a devastating U.S.-led coalition airstrike destroyed thousands of retreating Iraqi military vehicles on February 26–27, 1991, during the final days of Operation Desert Storm.

The incident is one of the most controversial and tragic moments of the Gulf War, raising ethical, military, and political debates about the nature of modern warfare.

This analysis explores:

1. Background of the Highway of Death

2. Events Leading to the Attack

3. The Bombing and Destruction on Highway 80

4. The Role of the U.S. and Coalition Forces

5. Casualties and Destruction

6. The Controversy and Ethical Debate

7. The Aftermath and Impact on Future Wars

8. Conclusion

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1. Background of the Highway of Death

Geographical and Strategic Importance

Highway 80 is a major road linking Kuwait to Iraq, passing through Jahra, Mutla Ridge, and into Basra.

It was the main supply and retreat route for Iraqi forces during the Gulf War (1990–1991).

Iraqi Invasion and Occupation of Kuwait (August 2, 1990)

Saddam Hussein’s Iraqi army invaded Kuwait, taking control in just two days.

Iraq annexed Kuwait as its 19th province, defying UN resolutions.

Operation Desert Storm Begins (January 17, 1991)

A U.S.-led coalition of 35 nations launched a massive air and ground assault to force Iraq out of Kuwait.

After weeks of bombing, Iraq’s military infrastructure was severely weakened.

Iraq’s Decision to Withdraw (February 25, 1991)

Facing imminent defeat, Saddam Hussein ordered a retreat from Kuwait.

Thousands of Iraqi troops, tanks, and vehicles began withdrawing along Highway 80.

This retreat set the stage for the devastating airstrikes on Highway 80, leading to its infamous name: The Highway of Death.

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2. Events Leading to the Attack

Coalition Military Strategy

U.S. General Norman Schwarzkopf had planned to cut off Iraqi forces using the "Left Hook" maneuver, surrounding them from the west.

The coalition targeted retreating Iraqi forces to prevent regrouping in Iraq.

The Mutla Ridge Positioning

Mutla Ridge, near the highway, was a strategic high ground.

Coalition forces positioned here could monitor and target retreating Iraqi convoys.

Iraqi Retreat Turns to Chaos

Iraqi forces began their withdrawal on February 25–26, 1991.

The retreating convoy included:

Iraqi Republican Guard troops

Regular army soldiers

Kuwaiti hostages and stolen property

Many soldiers abandoned their vehicles and fled on foot, expecting an imminent airstrike.

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3. The Bombing and Destruction on Highway 80

Timeline of the Attack (February 26–27, 1991)

1. Initial Airstrikes (February 26, evening)

U.S. A-10 Warthogs, F-15s, and Apache helicopters launched an aerial assault.

Bombs and missiles destroyed lead and rear vehicles, trapping the convoy.

2. Heavy Bombardment (February 27, early morning)

U.S. and coalition aircraft repeatedly bombed and strafed the trapped vehicles.

Cluster bombs and incendiary weapons caused mass destruction.

3. The Road Becomes a Graveyard

Thousands of vehicles were destroyed, creating a 10-mile stretch of burning wreckage.

Some soldiers abandoned their vehicles and tried to escape across the desert but were targeted by helicopter gunships.

Weapons Used in the Attack

Laser-guided bombs

Cluster munitions

30mm Gatling guns (A-10 Warthogs)

Hellfire missiles (Apache helicopters)

The attack lasted nearly 10 hours, leaving behind one of the most devastating war zones in modern history.

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4. The Role of the U.S. and Coalition Forces

U.S. Air Force and Navy Involvement

The U.S. Air Force and Navy fighter jets led the bombing campaign.

The objective was to prevent Iraqi forces from regrouping in Basra.

British and French Airstrikes

The Royal Air Force (RAF) and French Air Force also conducted strikes.

Role of Saudi Arabian and Kuwaiti Forces

Saudi and Kuwaiti ground forces provided logistical support.

The coalition’s superior air power ensured Iraqi forces had no escape.

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5. Casualties and Destruction

Human Losses

Estimated 10,000+ Iraqi soldiers and civilians were killed.

Some surrendered but were still attacked.

Vehicle and Equipment Losses

2,000+ tanks, trucks, and armored vehicles were destroyed.

Hundreds of civilian cars and buses were also bombed.

Environmental and Infrastructural Damage

Oil spills and fires from burning vehicles.

Mutla Ridge and surrounding roads were littered with debris.

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6. The Controversy and Ethical Debate

Was It a Military Necessity or a Massacre?

Critics argue it was a disproportionate attack on retreating soldiers.

The laws of war prohibit attacks on soldiers who are surrendering.

Did the U.S. Violate International Law?

Under the Geneva Conventions, attacking retreating, non-combatant soldiers is illegal.

The U.S. claimed Iraqis were still armed and capable of fighting.

Media Coverage and Public Reaction

Journalists captured shocking images of burnt bodies and destroyed vehicles.

The incident sparked global debate about the ethics of modern warfare.

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7. The Aftermath and Impact on Future Wars

Immediate Consequences

The destruction on Highway 80 accelerated Iraq’s surrender.

On February 28, 1991, a ceasefire was declared.

Long-Term Impact

1. Saddam Hussein’s Regime Survives

Despite Iraq’s defeat, Saddam remained in power for 12 more years.

2. Rise of Anti-American Sentiment

Many in the Middle East saw the attack as excessive force.

3. Influence on Future Wars

The 2003 Iraq War saw similar shock-and-awe bombing tactics.

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8. Conclusion

The Highway of Death remains one of the most controversial episodes of modern warfare. It was a decisive military strike, but also a brutal display of destruction that raised ethical questions.

Key Takeaways:

The attack ensured Iraq’s defeat, but the scale of destruction shocked the world.

The legal and moral aspects of targeting retreating soldiers remain debated.

The incident influenced U.S. military strategy in future conflicts.

Ultimately, the Highway of Death serves as a grim reminder of the devastation of war and the need for ethical considerations in military operations.