Desert Storm The Battle for Umm Qasr

Introduction

Desert Storm was a war fought between the coalition forces led by the United States and Iraq in the early 1990s. The battle for Umm Qasr was one of the significant events in this war. Umm Qasr, a port city located on the Persian Gulf, was a strategic location that needed to be captured by the coalition forces to gain access to the sea for supplies and reinforcements.

The Battle for Umm Qasr

The battle for Umm Qasr started on the 21st of March 1991. The coalition forces, comprising troops from the United States, United Kingdom, and other countries, launched a massive assault on the city. The Iraqi forces had fortified the city with heavy artillery, mines, and other defensive measures.

The coalition forces faced fierce resistance from the Iraqi forces, who used mortars, rockets, and other weapons to repel the attack. It was not until the 25th of March that the coalition forces were able to capture the city after several days of intense fighting.

The battle for Umm Qasr was not without its challenges. The coalition forces had to deal with the harsh desert terrain, which made it difficult for them to move their troops and equipment. They also had to contend with the unpredictable weather conditions, which made it challenging to plan and execute their operations effectively.

The Aftermath

The capture of Umm Qasr was a significant victory for the coalition forces, as it gave them access to the sea for supplies and reinforcements. It also marked the beginning of the end of the war.

The battle for Umm Qasr was not without its casualties. The coalition forces suffered several losses, including soldiers killed and wounded in action. The Iraqi forces also suffered significant losses, with many soldiers killed or captured.

The capture of Umm Qasr was a turning point in the war, as it paved the way for the coalition forces to advance towards the Iraqi capital, Baghdad. The war eventually came to an end on the 28th of February 1991, after the coalition forces achieved their objectives and forced Iraq to withdraw from Kuwait.

Conclusion

The battle for Umm Qasr was a critical event in the Desert Storm war. It was a challenging battle that tested the skills and determination of the coalition forces. The capture of Umm Qasr was a significant victory that gave the coalition forces access to the sea and paved the way for their advance towards Baghdad. The battle for Umm Qasr will always be remembered as a testament to the courage and bravery of the soldiers who fought in this war.