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Case Studies in Sanctions and Terrorism
Case 90-1
US and UN v. Iraq (1990–: Invasion of Kuwait, Impairment of military capability,
destabilization)
See also Case 80-2 US v. Iraq (1980–2003: Terrorism; Chemical and Nuclear Weapons)
| Chronology of Key Events | Goals of Sender Country | Response to Target Country |
Attitude of Other Countries | Legal Notes | Economic Impact | Assessment |
Author's Summary | Bibliography |
|
July 17, 1990 |
Iraqi President Saddam Hussein denounces Persian Gulf oil-producing countries that exceed their OPEC (Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries) quotas. (Wall Street Journal, 3 August 1990, A4) |
| July 18, 1990 | Iraqi Foreign Minister Tariq Aziz accuses Kuwait of stealing Iraqi oil from disputed Rumaila oil field, claims Kuwait has built military posts on Iraqi land. United Arab Emirates (UAE) says it will cut production to quota level. (Wall Street Journal, 3 August 1990, A4) |
| July 27, 1990 | In response to evidence that Iraq is obtaining materials for its nuclear program, Bush administration imposes export controls on sensitive technologies. (Wall Street Journal, 10 October 1990, A1) |
| July 27, 1990 | US Congress passes legislation denying benefits of agricultural promotion programs to countries that violate human rights, acquire weapons of mass destruction, support international terrorism, or refuse to abide by the 1925 gas warfare treaty. Bill curtails US agricultural export credits to Iraq valued at $1 billion annually. (Congressional Research Service [CSR], 22 January 1991, 14) |
| July 30, 1990 | Iraqi central bank requests correspondent banks transfer between $100 million and $400 million in assets to Central Bank of Jordan. (Washington Post, 9 November 1990, A35) |
| August 1, 1990 | Saudi-mediated talks between Iraq and Kuwait held at Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, collapse when Kuwait refuses Iraq's demands, which include reduction in Kuwaiti oil production, compensation of $2.5 billion for oil produced in disputed territory, forgiveness by Kuwait of about $20 billion in debts accumulated during war with Iran, control of Bubiyan and Warba islands giving Iraq direct access to Persian Gulf for its oil exports. (Financial Times, 2 August 1990, 1; Wall Street Journal, 3 August 1990, A5; Washington Post, 3 August 1990, A27) |
| August 2, 1990 |
Iraq invades Kuwait. Invoking International Emergency Economic Powers Act, US President George Bush freezes Iraqi and Kuwaiti assets, bans all trade and financial relations with Iraq. Donations of medical supplies and food for humanitarian purposes are exempt from trade embargo. Iraq freezes payment of US portion ($2.24 billion) of its foreign debt. UK, France freeze billions of dollars in Kuwaiti assets. USSR suspends all deliveries of military equipment to Iraq. UN Security Council Resolution 660 condemns invasion, demands immediate, unconditional withdrawal of Iraqi forces from Kuwait. (Washington Post, 8 March 1990, A25; Office of the White House Press Secretary, 2 August 1990; New York Times, 3 August 1990, A9) |
| August 3, 1990 | Movement of Iraqi troops toward Saudi Arabian border prompts Bush to warn that "integrity of Saudi Arabia" is vital US concern. US and USSR issue joint statement in Moscow condemning Iraq, "... calling upon the rest of the international community to join with us in an international cutoff of all arms supplies to Iraq." With Jordan and Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) abstaining, Libya not present, Arab League issues declaration denouncing invasion, calling for immediate troop withdrawal. Gulf Cooperation Council also condemns attack. West Germany, Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg, Norway freeze Iraqi assets. Iraq says it will withdraw troops from Kuwait within two days. |
| August 5, 1990 | Japan embargoes oil imports from Iraq and Kuwait, halts all exports to the two states, freezes economic aid to Iraq. China joins arms embargo against Iraq. Bush administration allows Iraqi and Kuwaiti oil shipped before invasion to unload, but requires any payment due to be placed in escrow. (Washington Post, 6 August 1990, A13; New York Times, 6 August 1990, A1; Wall Street Journal, 6 August 1990, A9) |
| August 6, 1990 | With Cuba and Yemen abstaining, UN Security Council approves Resolution 661 imposing comprehensive trade and financial sanctions against Iraq, occupied Kuwait. Medical supplies and humanitarian food shipments are excluded from embargo. With no buyers, Iraq closes one pipeline through Turkey, decreases flow through another, reducing its oil exports by at least 40 percent. Several hundred Westerners, including 28 US nationals, are detained in Kuwait, taken to Iraqi capital of Baghdad. Hussein threatens unspecified retaliation if Saudi Arabia increases oil production to help West or shuts down Iraqi pipelines that cross Saudi desert. The UN establishes a standing committee to monitor international sanctions against Iraq. (UNSC Resolution 661, 6 August 1990; New York Times, 7 August 1990, A1; 8 August 1990, A18) |
| August 7, 1990 | Bush orders US military aircraft, troops to Saudi Arabia to defend it against possible Iraqi attack. British, Soviet, French ships join US naval forces already in Gulf area. Turkey freezes Iraqi and Kuwaiti assets, halts transshipment of Iraqi oil. Iraq cuts flow of oil through its other main pipeline, to Saudi Arabia's Red Sea port of Yanbu, by 75 percent. (Washington Post, 8 August 1990, A12; Financial Times, 8 August 1990, 1; New York Times, 8 August 1990, A1) |
| August 8-9, 1990 | Iraq announces annexation of Kuwait. UN Security Council resolution 662 declares annexation "null and void." King Hussein of Jordan says he does not recognize merger, will comply with UN economic sanctions. Iraq seals its borders, barring departure of all foreigners except diplomatic personnel. About 2,500 Americans are trapped in Kuwait, another 500 in Iraq. Iraq's ambassador in Athens says Iraq will use chemical weapons if attacked. (Washington Post, 9 August 1990, A1; UNSC Resolution 662, 9 August 1990) |
| August 10, 1990 | Hussein calls for holy war, urging "Moslem masses" to rise up against US forces in Saudi Arabia and against pro-Western Arab leaders, whom he accuses of blaspheming Islam. At emergency summit in Cairo, Arab leaders vote 12 to 3 to send troops to Saudi Arabia to help defend against possible invasion by Iraqi forces. Libya, PLO join Iraq in opposing resolution; Yemen abstains. Jordan votes to approve resolution "with reservations." Canada, France, Australia send ships to Gulf area. (New York Times, 11 August 1990, A1; Washington Post, 11 August 1990, A1; 12 August 1990, A22) |
| August 11, 1990 | Several thousand Egyptian troops arrive in Saudi Arabia. Morocco, Syria promise to send similar number to join Arab effort. A British man is shot dead while trying to flee across Kuwaiti border into Saudi Arabia. (New York Times, 12 August 1990, A1; Washington Post, 13 August 1990, A1) |
| August 12, 1990 | Following formal Kuwaiti request under Article 51 of UN Charter, which permits any state under attack to seek collective help in its defense, Bush administration adopts policy of "interdiction," including use of force to stop ships attempting to circumvent UN embargo. Hussein says he would withdraw from Kuwait as part of settlement of "all issues of occupation" including Israeli withdrawal from the West Bank and Gaza Strip and Syrian pullout from Lebanon. Hussein also proposes pan-Arab force under UN auspices to replace US troops deployed in Saudi Arabia. Hussein asks Iraqis to reduce meat consumption by half, buy less rice, bread, clothes. (Washington Post, 13 August 1990, A1; 13 August 1990, A41; New York Times, 13 August 1990, A8) |
| August 13, 1990 | USSR, France, Canada criticize Bush administration's unilateral policy of interdiction. Bush administration insists sanctions apply to everything except medical supplies; White House spokesman Marlin Fitzwater insists, "it's clearly far too early to consider any foodstuffs as being in a humanitarian need category." Pakistan agrees to send troops to join multi-national force defending Saudi Arabia. (Washington Post, 14 August 1990, A1; New York Times, 14 August 1990, A11; Wall Street Journal, 14 August 1990, A7) |
| August 14, 1990 | Bush offers financial assistance to Jordan in return for compliance with UN sanctions, warns that US ships will blockade Jordanian port of Aqaba to prevent transshipment of Iraqi goods. (Washington Post, 15 August 1990, A1; New York Times, 15 August 1990, A1) (See also Case 90-6 US, Saudi Arabia v. Jordan/Yemen [1990-1997: Enforce UN Embargo v. Iraq]) |
| August 15, 1990 | Hussein offers peace proposal to Iran that includes resolution of dispute over Shatt al-Arab waterway on Iranian terms, release of all Iranian prisoners of war, withdrawal of Iraqi troops from Iranian territory. (Washington Post, 16 August 1990, A1; Financial Times, 16 August 1990, 1) |
| August 16, 1990 | King Hussein tells Bush that Jordan will enforce UN sanctions, close Red Sea port of Aqaba to goods bound for Iraq. Despite Iraq's peace offer, Iranian President Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani reiterates his demand that Iraq withdraw from Kuwait. (Washington Post, 17 August 1990, A1) |
| August 18, 1990 | Declaring the US-led naval blockade "an act of war," Iraqi government says that foreign nationals, some of whom are being held at military, strategic civilian sites as "shields" against US-led attack, will suffer along with Iraqis from any food, medicine shortages. UN Security Council votes 15 to 0 to demand that Iraq release all detained foreigners. Saudi Arabia calls for OPEC meeting to discuss increasing output but says it will boost oil production by 2 million barrels a day with or without OPEC approval. US Navy fires warning shots across bow of two Iraqi oil tankers. (Washington Post, 19 August 1990, A1; New York Times, 20 August 1990, A1; 17 August 1990, A12) |
| August 19, 1990 | US and UK reject offer from Hussein to release Westerners if US troops withdraw from Saudi Arabia and trade embargo is lifted. UAE and Bahrain allow deployment of Arab and "friendly" (including US) forces on its territory. Following reports that French nationals have been "displaced" from their hotels to unknown locations, France authorizes its ships in Persian Gulf to use force if necessary to ensure compliance with UN sanctions. (Washington Post, 20 August 1990, A1; New York Times, 20 August 1990, A1; Financial Times, 20 August 1990, 3) |
| August 20, 1990 | Reacting to Hussein's statements, Bush for first time describes detained Americans as hostages. Iran says it will abide by UN sanctions despite peace initiative from Iraq. Yemen, which abstained from UN vote on sanctions, agrees to abide by embargo. West German government concludes that its constitution prohibits sending troops to Persian Gulf. (Washington Post, 21 August 1990, A1; IMF Morning Press, 21 August 1990) |
| August 21, 1990 | Nine-member Western European Union decides to expand, coordinate naval enforcement in Persian Gulf. Total of 32 naval vessels, including 8 French, 3 British warships, have been mobilized by European countries; Italy, Belgium, Netherlands, Spain pledge to send ships to enforce embargo. (New York Times, 22 August 1990, A1; Financial Times, 22 August 1990, 2; Washington Post, 22 August 1990, A1) |
| August 22, 1990 | Bush orders activation of about 40,000 military reservists. UN Security Council begins consultation on requests from Jordan and Bulgaria to be compensated for economic hardships caused by UN sanctions on Iraq. Japan pledges economic aid to Egypt, will consider requests from other countries injured by enforcement of UN sanctions; Turkey and Jordan are envisaged to be eligible. With 120,000 refugees already on its territory, Jordan unsuccessfully attempts to close its border to foreigners still fleeing Iraq and Kuwait. Reports from Baghdad indicate panic buying of some commodities, severe shortage of cooking oil, soap, sugar. (Washington Post, 23 August 1990, A1, A35; New York Times, 23 August 1990, A14; Wall Street Journal, 23 August 1990, A3) |
| August 23, 1990 | As Iraq-declared deadline for closing embassies in Kuwait nears, the US and most other Western embassies reduce staffs to minimum, but vow to remain open. (Washington Post, 24 August 1990, A1) |
| August 24, 1990 | Iraqi troops surround US embassy in Kuwait, those of other nations defying Iraq's order to close. (Washington Post, 25 August 1990, A1) |
| August 25, 1990 | UN Security Council approves resolution authorizing countries "deploying maritime forces to the area [to] use such measures commensurate to the specific circumstances as may be necessary...to halt all inward and outward maritime shipping." Iraq cuts power to US, Japanese, Italian, British embassies, cuts power, water to East German mission. Israel pledges to block exports of Palestinian fruits, vegetables, other items shipped through Jordan to Iraq. (Washington Post, 26 August 1990, A24; New York Times, 27 August 1990, A8) |
| August 27, 1990 | US expels 36 Iraqi embassy personnel, places travel restrictions on remaining officials. Iraq orders its commercial ships to comply with interdictions in Persian Gulf. Israeli report claims Yemen has been airlifting food, other supplies to Iraq, that Jordan has continued military cooperation with Iraq. (Washington Post, 28 August 1990, A1) |
| August 28, 1990 | Iraq declares most of Kuwait to be its 19th province, incorporates disputed Rumaila oil field, Bubiyan and Warba islands into Iraq's Basra province. Hussein says all foreign women, children will be free to leave Iraq, Kuwait. Bush administration proposes to sell $6 billion to $8 billion worth of military equipment to Saudi Arabia. (Washington Post, 19 August 1990, A1; Washington Post, 2 October 1995, A15) |
| August 29, 1990 | OPEC ratifies increase in production to offset loss from embargo. Bush proposes Economic Action Plan under which wealthy US allies will share cost of US deployment in Gulf, help those countries adversely affected by enforcement of embargo (See table in Observed Economic Statistics). Turkey rejects Iraqi request to allow shipments of "medicine and food for children" saying it will continue to enforce embargo. (Washington Post, 30 August 1990, A1; 1 September 1990, A20) |
| August 31, 1990 | Bush reportedly will seek congressional approval to forgive Egypt's $7.1 billion military debt to US in recognition of its support during Persian Gulf crisis. Administration sends envoy to tell Jordan it cannot expect financial aid unless it publicly states support for embargo and halts shipments, including food, to Iraq. (Washington Post, 1 September 1990, A1) |
| September 1, 1990 | Over 550 American, European, Japanese women, children are allowed to leave Iraq. (Washington Post, 2 September 1990, A1; New York Times, 2 September 1990, A1) |
| September 2, 1990 | Iraq limits consumer purchases of basic foods, calling measure "rationalization of consumption" rather than rationing. Libya says it will not obey UN embargo on food shipments to Iraq. (Washington Post, 3 September 1990, A1; New York Times, 3 September 1990, A1) |
| September 5, 1990 | West Germany says it will not contribute funds to Bush's "burden sharing" plan but will supply planes, ships to transport US troops to region. (Washington Post, 6 September 1990, A1) |
| September 6, 1990 | Saudi Arabia pledges multi-billion dollar package for economic support fund, including in-kind contributions of fuel, transportation, supplies to support American deployment in Gulf, funds for front-line states of Egypt, Jordan, Turkey. India decides to send medical supplies to Iraq; China and Iran reportedly consider sending food and medical supplies to Iraq; Tunisia, Yugoslavia, Romania say they want to send food, medical supplies to their citizens in Kuwait. (Washington Post, 7 September 1990, A1; New York Times, 7 September 1990, A1; Financial Times, 7 September 1990, 7) |
| September 7, 1990 | Bush, Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev meet in Helsinki, Finland, issue joint declaration condemning invasion, stating that both countries will take unspecified further steps if sanctions fail to force Iraqi withdrawal. Statement says that any humanitarian exemptions of food from UN embargo "must be strictly monitored by appropriate international agencies" rather than by individual countries. (Washington Post, 10 September 1990, A19) |
| September 9, 1990 | Iran and Iraq resume diplomatic ties. Hussein offers free oil to any Third World nation that can collect it; he says this will not violate embargo since oil is free. (Washington Post, 11 September 1990, A1) |
| September 14, 1990 | UN Security Council imposes strict controls on humanitarian food aid to Iraq, Kuwait, says shipments must be channeled through UN or other international agencies. Vote follows Iraq's decision to deny food to hundreds of thousands of Asians in Iraq and Kuwait. Indian vessel is allowed to transport food to Kuwait, where estimated 140,000 Indians are stranded. UK commits 6,000 troops to Saudi Arabia, 120 tanks; Syria pledges to send additional troops; Canada, Italy each pledge squadron of jet fighters. Iraqi soldiers storm French, Canadian, Australian, Belgian embassies in Kuwait City, taking four French hostages. (Washington Post, 15 September 1990, A1; Financial Times, 17 September 1990, 2) |
| September 15, 1990 | France condemns violation of embassies, decides to send 4,000 ground troops backed by tanks, combat aircraft to Saudi Arabia. (Washington Post, 16 September 1990, A1) |
| September 16, 1990 | Egypt announces it will send 15,000 more troops to Saudi Arabia. (Financial Times, 17 September 1990, 2) |
| September 17, 1990 | Saudi Arabia and USSR reestablish diplomatic ties after 52-year break. (Washington Post, 18 September 1990, A2) |
| September 23, 1990 | Hussein threatens to attack Saudi oil fields, other Arab countries, Israel if Iraq is "strangled" by economic embargo. (New York Times, 24 September 1990, A1) |
| September 25, 1990 | With only Cuba opposed, UN Security Council imposes air embargo against Iraq, cutting off all air traffic to and from Iraq and Kuwait. UN members proscribe any aircraft that "would carry any cargo to or from Iraq or Kuwait" from taking off from their territory or using their airspace. Flights carrying food "in humanitarian circumstances" are excluded from embargo. Resolution does not allow planes to be shot down, allows countries to detain Iraqi ships which violate embargo, provides for imposition of trade sanctions against any country that breaks embargo. (New York Times, 26 September 1990, A1; UN Resolution 670, 25 September 1990) |
| October 7-8, 1990 | Egyptian, Syrian commanders of troops in Saudi Arabia reiterate that their troops are there solely for defense of Saudi Arabia, will not engage in any offensive operations. President Rafsanjani warns that Iran would be "absolutely opposed" to settlement in which Kuwait cedes control of Bubiyan and Warba islands to Iraq, saying that Iran "would act within our means to stop it." (Washington Post, 9 October 1990, A12) |
| October 17-18, 1990 | Secretary of State James A. Baker III and Gorbachev's special envoy Yevgeny Primakov say (on consecutive days) that Hussein must not profit from aggression, thus rejecting rumors that agreement would be reached whereby Iraq would withdraw from rest of Kuwait in return for port islands, Rumaila oil field. (Washington Post, 19 October 1990, A28) |
| November 5, 1990 | The Iraq Sanctions Act of 1990 is signed by President Bush. The legislation endorses presidential sanctions imposed under consecutive executive orders and imposes the following additional sanctions: denial of assistance under the Foreign Assistance Act, instructions to US executive directors of multilateral banks to vote against financial assistance to Iraq, denial of export licenses for defense items and services controlled by the Arms Export Control Act, denial of licenses for exports of certain goods controlled under the Export Administration Act, denial of licenses for exports of certain nuclear material, technology and components controlled under the Atomic Energy Act, and denial of Exim-Bank assistance. The legislation sets out specific conditions that must exist in Iraq for the President to waive the additional sanctions. (See Legal Notes) (President's Export Council, Survey of US Unilateral Sanctions, 1997, 8) |
| November 8, 1990 | Bush announces doubling of the size of US combat forces stationed in the Middle East. (Wall Street Journal, 9 November 1990, A3) |
| November 29, 1990 | The UN Security Council approves Resolution 678 authorizing member states to "use all necessary means...to restore international peace and security in the area." The resolution gives Iraq until 15 January 1991 to withdraw from Kuwait. China abstains; only Yemen and Cuba vote against. (Washington Post, 30 November 1990, A1; Oldaker 1996, 1) |
| November 30, 1990 | Bush offers to send Secretary of State James Baker to Baghdad to meet with Saddam Hussein at a "mutually convenient time" between December 15 and January 15, and to receive Iraqi Foreign Minister Tariq Aziz in Washington the week of December 10. (Washington Post, 1 December 1990, A1) |
| December 6, 1990 | Saddam orders the release of remaining western hostages. (Christian Science Monitor, 18 October 1991, 4) |
| December 12, 1990 | Hussein agrees to receive Baker, but only on January 12. The US administration insists that "last chance" peace talks take place earlier, in order to allow for a complete withdrawal of Iraqi forces from Kuwait by January 15. (Christian Science Monitor, 18 October 1991, 4) |
| December 13, 1990 | The Washington Post reports that Pentagon planners in charge of logistics in the Gulf believe that maintaining the more than 400,000 troops stationed in the Gulf for up to a year would "be expensive and difficult but clearly manageable." (Washington Post, 13 December 1990, A1) |
| January 12, 1991 | After a long debate, the US Congress passes a resolution authorizing use of military force against Iraq. (Congressional Quarterly Weekly Report, 12 January 1991, 65) |
| January 16, 1991 | Allied forces launch air strikes against Iraqi military and economic targets. (National Public Radio, 16 January 1991) |
| February 23, 1991 | Allied troops move into Kuwait, southern Iraq, quickly overwhelming Iraqi troops. (National Public Radio, 23 February 1991) |
| February 28, 1991 | Allied forces halt military action against Iraq short of reaching Baghdad, an informal cease-fire goes into effect. (Washington Post, 12 April 1991, A32) |
| March 2, 1991 | UN passes Resolution 686 outlining the requirements for Iraq's compliance with the cease-fire. Iraq agrees to coalition conditions for cease-fire after two-hour negotiations between Iraqi and American military commanders. (UNSC Resolution 686; Washington Post, 14 April 1991, A28) |
| March 4, 1991 | Shiite rebellion breaks out in southern Iraq, but is quickly put down by Iraqi forces. (Washington Post, 14 April 1991, A28) |
| March 13, 1991 | Kurdish rebel commanders announce that they have seized 75 percent of northern Iraq. (Washington Post, 14 April 1991, A28) |
| April 3, 1991 | UN Security Council approves Resolution 687 establishing a permanent cease-fire in Iraq and setting conditions for lifting of sanctions (e.g. total ban on exports to Iraq of arms, weapons of mass destruction and related technology, personnel and material, See Legal Notes). Saying it "has no choice," Iraq accepts the resolution on April 6; the Security Council formally announces that the cease-fire is in effect on April 11. (Washington Post, 12 April 1991, A32) |
| 5 April 1991 | UN Security Council approves Resolution 688 demanding that Iraq immediately end repression of its civilian population, including in Kurdish-areas in the north, and allow international humanitarian organizations access to all areas in Iraq. Bush administration warns Iraq not to interfere with humanitarian relief efforts in Kurdish-populated areas and declares area north of 36th parallel a "no-fly" zone. (UN Resolution 688, 5 April 1991; Washington Post, 10 April 1991, A1; 11 April 1991, A1) |
| 18 April 1991 | United Nations Special Commission (UNSCOM) is established to carry out on-site inspections of Iraq's biological, chemical and missile capabilities, supervise the removal of chemical and biological weapons, and monitor and verify Iraq's compliance with disarmament obligations under resolution 687. (www.un.org/depts/unscom/unscom.cfm) |
| 20 May 1991 | Bush says sanctions should not be lifted as long as Saddam Hussein remains in power in Iraq. (International Trade Reporter, 29 May 1991, 825) |
| 12 July 1991 | The leader of a UN team sent to Iraq to survey Iraq's civilian needs says he will recommend a partial lifting of sanctions to allow Iraq to buy critically needed food, medicine, and spare parts. Because of constraints on the UN's own budget, he says Iraq should be allowed to sell some oil to pay for the needed items. (Washington Post, 13 July 1991, A14) |
| 5 August 1991 | As required by UNSC Resolution 687, Iraq begins to return $700 million in gold bullion to Kuwait. Transfer is completed by 18 August. (CRS, 31 March 1992, 12) |
| 7 August 1991 | International inspectors discover a previously unknown and unexpectedly sophisticated facility for the production of centrifuges for use in uranium enrichment outside of Baghdad. US officials say the operation is one of four approaches followed by Iraq in its attempt to develop nuclear weapons. (Washington Post, 8 August 1991, A30) |
| 8 August 1991 | Iraq reveals that it tried to hide 17.6 pounds of irradiated nuclear fuel from UN inspectors. (Washington Times, 9 August 1991, 7) |
| 21 August 1991 | UNSCOM team reports that Iraq cooperated with UN efforts to verify the destruction of chemical weapons sites; attributes Iraqi attitude to need to resume chlorine production for civilian uses. (New York Times, 22 August 1991, A3) |
| 19 September 1991 | Following report by UN team sent to assess humanitarian conditions in Iraq, UN Security Council approves Resolution 706 which allows Iraq to export up to $1.6 billion of oil over a 6-month period. 30 percent of the revenues are earmarked for a reparations fund, five percent to pay for UN operations in Iraq, and the rest about $900 million may be used to buy humanitarian supplies. Under the plan oil revenues will go into an escrow account and expenditures will be monitored to ensure they go only for food. Iraq, however, refuses to take advantage of the program, saying the conditions are an intrusion on its sovereignty. Observers speculate that secret reserves of gold and perhaps secret bank accounts missed in the assets freeze are allowing Saddam to import some food and resist the UN demands. (Washington Post, 20 September 1991, A23; 22 October 1991, A17; 10 December 1991, A31; CRS, 31 March 1992, 13) |
| 23 September 1991 | Iraq detains 44 UN inspectors for 13 hours after they discover documents detailing Iraqi nuclear weapons program. Iraq releases inspectors after confiscating suspect documents, charges that UN team leader David Kay works for US intelligence. Three days later, Iraq agrees to release documents. (CRS, 31 March 1992, 17) |
| 11 October 1991 | UN Security Council approves Resolution 715, laying out a long-term plan to monitor potential Iraqi violations of Resolution 687, which prohibits Iraq from pursing the production of weapons of mass destruction. (Dowty 1994, 180) |
| 12 October 1991 | At an Iraqi-sponsored regional conference, Saddam Hussein claims that Iraq could withstand international sanctions for "20 years." (CRS, 31 March 1992, 20) |
| 2 November 1991 | Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) charge that Iraq has stipulated that all aid should be funneled through its official rationing and distribution system, bars them from distributing humanitarian aid directly. (New York Times, 3 November 1991, A1) |
| 23 November 1991 | Iraq frees imprisoned British national in exchange for the release of $125 million in frozen assets in UK banks. Under the terms of the agreement, funds will be used to purchase humanitarian imports. 12 European banks reportedly release tens of millions of dollars in Iraqi assets despite US objections. (New York Times, 24 November 1991, A7; Washington Post, 10 December 1991, A31) |
| 27 November 1991 | A Senate Foreign Relations Committee staff report claims that Iraq is able to buy food and other necessities by sanctions-busting exports to Iran, Turkey, and, primarily, Jordan, and by drawing on secret bank accounts not caught in the assets freeze, and through sales of gold and jewelry. (Washington Post, 10 December, 1991, A31; International Trade Reporter, 4 December 1991, 1759) |
| 10 December 1991 | The Islamic Conference Organization adopts resolution calling for the maintenance of economic sanctions against Iraq; Sudan casts the only negative vote on the measure. (CRS, 31 March 1992, 28) |
| 11 January 1992 | Iraq claims that it has rebuilt 75 percent of its power grid, 85 percent of its oil refining capacity, and large parts of its transportation and military-industrial infrastructure. Italy releases between $10 million and $84 million in Iraqi assets for purchase of humanitarian goods. (CRS, 31 March 1992, 31) |
| 13 January 1992 | Germany provides information to the UNSCOM revealing that German companies "played a key role in supplying materials" for Iraq's centrifuge program; UN inspectors believe the enrichment program would have been capable of producing enough enriched uranium for four Nagasaki-size bombs a year. Four days later International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirms that Iraq has destroyed German-supplied equipment. (Financial Times, 15 January 1992, 1; CRS, 31 March 1992, 32) |
| 25 January 1992 | UN Secretary General releases report to Security Council highlighting Iraqi recalcitrance in complying with UN resolutions regarding its weapons programs, military activities, and financial disclosures. (CRS, 31 March 1992, 33) |
| 5 February 1992 | UN Security Council votes to extend economic sanctions against Iraq because of "serious evidence" revealing Iraqi non-compliance with UN resolutions. (Washington Post, 6 February 1992, A21) |
| 13 February 1992 | Turkish Prime Minister announces that Turkey will crack down on the illegal importation of Iraqi oil cargo in response to complaints from Turkish merchants that the Iraqi imports are depressing the local market. (Congressional Research Service (CRS), 31 March 1992, 36) |
| 27 February 1992 | Iraq informs the UN that it will increase its compliance with UN resolutions in exchange for a relaxation of economic sanctions. US rejects Iraqi linkage, calls for a new UNSC resolution to pressure Iraq to comply with existing resolutions. Bush administration announces that US will not ease sanctions until Saddam Hussein is removed from power. (CRS, 31 March 1992, 39) |
| 1 March 1992 | After Iraq refuses to destroy ballistic missile manufacturing equipment, British Foreign Secretary Douglas Hurd hints that UK will not rule out the use of air strikes to force Iraqi compliance with UN resolutions. Press reports assert that Bush administration is also considering using a military strike to coerce Iraq into complying with UN demands to dismantle its ballistic missile production facilities. (CRS, 31 March 1992, 39) |
| 11 March 1992 | The UN Security Council charges Iraq with noncompliance with Resolution 687, because of its continued refusal to reveal the whereabouts of all its nuclear, chemical, biological weapons and production facilities. Russian ambassador in Washington endorses the use of military force to compel Iraq to destroy its weapons of mass destruction. (Washington Post, 12 March 1992, A1; CRS, 31 March 1992, 42-43) |
| 14 March 1992 | US officially threatens to use military measures to force Iraqi compliance with UN demands. (CRS, 31 March 1992, 44) |
| 20 March 1992 | State Department official confirms that Iraq has allowed the UN to establish humanitarian aid centers in several southern Shiite cities. (CRS, 31 March 1992, 46) |
| 23 March 1992 | Reports surface that Syria has opened its border in two places to facilitate trade with Iraq; Syria denies the report. (The Middle East Economic Survey, 23 March 1992) |
| 25 March 1992 | UN team reports that it has begun the dismantling of ballistic missile production equipment. (CRS, 31 March 1992, 47) |
| 25 April 1992 | After months of fruitless investigation, State Department and CIA officials are increasingly skeptical that large amounts of hidden Iraqi financial assets exist. (Washington Post, 25 April 1992, A1) |
| 6 May 1992 | US steps up pressure on Iraq to implement the "oil-for-food" deal by threatening to use frozen Iraqi assets to pay for needed humanitarian goods. (Financial Times, 6 May 1992, 7) |
| July 1992 | According to news reports, the availability of electric power is almost back to pre-war levels in Baghdad and a few other areas and that reconstruction of buildings and communications is proceeding. However, supplies of food and other essentials seems to have been reduced following US pressure on Jordan's King Hussein to crack down on smuggling through his country. (New York Times, 14 July 1992, A1, A6) |
| 26 August 1992 | Accusing Saddam Hussein of violating UN Resolution 688, US, UK, and France declare a no-fly zone in southern Iraq to prevent Iraqi forces from continued repression of Shiite Muslims in the area. (Washington Post, 27 August 1992, A1; USIS, 26 August 1992) |
| 2 September 1992 | IAEA Deputy Director Maurizio Zifferero, head of the UN nuclear inspection team in Iraq, declares that Iraq's nuclear program has been dismantled. (Washington Post, 3 September 1992, A39) |
| 29 March 1993 | US and UK drop demand that Hussein step down as a condition for lifting economic embargo, but reinforce demands that Iraq abide by cease-fire agreement and UN resolutions. (Washington Post, 30 March 1993, A17) |
| November 1993 | Iraq agrees to allow the UN to set up a long-term electronic monitoring system to verify that it does not again acquire weapons of mass destruction. (The Economist, 7 January 1994, 57; Washington Post, 7 February 1994, A11) |
| 17 May 1994 | The UN Security Council says that, in addition to allowing long-term monitoring of its weapons programs, Iraq must also officially recognize the newly demarcated border with Kuwait before sanctions can be lifted. In addition, the United States wants to link the lifting of sanctions to Iraq's treatment of the Shiites in the south and the Kurds in the north. (New York Times, 18 May 1994, A10) |
| July 1994 | Iraq destroys 480,000 liters of chemical agents in accordance to demands of the UNSCOM. (Oldaker 1996, 2) |
| 9 August 1994 | Hussein Kamel Hassan, son-in-law of Saddam Hussein and senior member of the ruling circle in Baghdad, defects to Jordan and attempts to form an anti-Ba'ath resistance movement. Kamel reveals extensive details of Iraq's continuing biological, nuclear, and missile programs to UN and US intelligence officials. (Oldaker 1996, 2) |
| September 1994 | Turkey relaxes embargo along border, allows 600 trucks a day to transport food to Iraq in exchange for up to 1,500 liters of oil. (Financial Times, 8 December 1994, 5) |
| 6 October 1994 | 20,000 Iraqi troops suddenly surge toward the Kuwaiti border but quickly withdraw when the US responds with a rapid buildup of troops and other military forces in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. (Washington Post, 14 October 1994, A1; New York Times, 18 October 1994, A1) |
| October- November 1994 |
In mid-October, Iraq and Russia issue a joint statement from Baghdad stating that Iraq is ready to recognize Kuwait's sovereignty and borders and that, once it does, Russia will support lifting the oil boycott. However, at a Security Council meeting a few days later, Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister Tariq Aziz does not submit the expected formal recognition, saying only that it is "under consideration". Iraq formally recognizes Kuwait's sovereignty in mid-November. (Washington Post, 14 October 1994, A1; New York Times, 18 October 1994, A1; The Economist, 19 November 1994, 47) |
| 14 April 1995 | The UN Security Council passes Resolution 986, which increases the amount of oil Iraq can export under the "oil-for-food" program from $1.6 billion to $2 billion every six months. Despite this increase, Iraq charges that the terms of the resolution violate Iraqi sovereignty and refuses to cooperate. (New York Times, 30 January 1996, A3) |
| 7 December 1995 | United Nations officials disclose that Jordan has seized a cache of Russian-made missile guidance systems that were being smuggled into Iraq across the Jordanian border. Russian officials deny any involvement in the shipment. (National Public Radio, 7 December 1995; Washington Post, 15 December 1995, A30) |
| 25 January 1996 | Jordan announces that it will halve its exports to Iraq, estimated at $400 million, in an effort to alienate the Iraqi business community from Saddam Hussein. (Financial Times, 26 January 1996, 6) |
| 2 March 1996 | Hussein Kamel, the brother in-law of President Saddam Hussein, is killed along with members of his family three days after he returns from exile in Jordan. Kamel left Amman after his efforts to rally anti-Baghdad Iraqi groups failed and after receiving assurances he would not be harmed. (Newsweek, 4 March 1996, 39) |
| 7 March 1996 | Jordan announces that it has seized another shipment of military spare parts en route to Baghdad. (New York Times, 8 March 1996, A12) |
| April 1996 | Jordan allows the United States to base fighter jets near the Iraqi border to enforce the no-fly zone over southern Iraq. (Washington Post, 7 March 1996, A17) |
| 4 May 1996 | President Clinton charges that the US Navy has evidence that Iran has assisted Iraq in smuggling petroleum products through the Persian Gulf. (Reuters, 13 May 1996) |
| 20-22 May 1996 | Iraq and the UN sign agreement to implement "oil-for-food" deal, under which Iraq will sell up to $2 billion in oil over a six-month period in accordance with Resolution 986. In response Iraqi dinar surges and prices for consumer goods plummet. (Reuters, 20 May 1996; 22 May 1996) |
| 14 June 1996 | UNSCOM inspectors begin dismantling a biological weapons facility in central Iraq, despite pleas from Baghdad to salvage some dual-use items. (Reuters, 14 June 1996) |
| 3-4 September 1996 | Iraq sends its army into the Kurdish north; the US launches cruise missile raids against air defenses in Southern Iraq and extends the southern no-fly-zone almost to the outskirts of Baghdad. While the UK supports the air strike, Russia and France express disapproval. Following the attack, the United Nations temporarily suspends the "oil-for-food" program. (The Economist, 7 September 1996, 6-7) |
| Early December 1996 | The UN Security Council decides to extend the "oil-for-food" agreement for the upcoming six months. Iraq signs its first contracts with foreign companies to sell crude oil. (Financial Times, 3 December 1996, 6; Washington Post, 10 December 1996, A21) |
| 29 December 1996 | France announces it will cease to participate in the mission monitoring Northern Iraq. (International Herald Tribune, 29 December 1996, 1) |
| 27 March 1997 | Secretary of State Albright specifies the conditions under which the US would agree to lift sanctions on Iraq. Not only does Iraq have to comply with UN resolutions, but Iraq has to prove its peaceful intentions. She doubts this can occur without a change in the Iraqi regime. (Financial Times, 27 March 1997, 7) |
| 10 April 1997 | US Ambassador to the UN Bill Richardson calls for a condemnation of Iraq for violating the air embargo by flying more than 100 people to the holy Muslim site at Mecca in Saudi Arabia. (United Press International, 10 April 1997) |
| 15 April 1997 | In defiance of the hardening US attitude towards Baghdad, Russia and Iraq reach an agreement to develop the Qurna oilfield in Southwestern Iraq. Russia claims that the agreement does not constitute a violation of the UN sanctions because they allow Russia to make investments in oil facilities already owned by Russians. Nevertheless, Russia agrees not to go ahead with the development until the sanctions are lifted. (Financial Times, 15 April 1997, 1) |
| 17 April 1997 | Owing to the opposition of China and Egypt and to a lesser extent Russia and France, the UN Security Council issues a statement that does not condemn Iraq for flying a group of pilgrims to the Mecca in spite of the UN-imposed air embargo. The US Defense Department asserts that although the US opposes the principle of the flights, it is not ready to use force to stop such a small and humanitarian operation. (New York Times, 17 April 1997, A7; Washington Post, 23 May 1997, A1) |
| 25 May 1997 | Top Iraqi officials say that Baghdad would not object to the reopening of the border crossing with Syria, which has been closed for 17 years. Syria shows a particular interest in taking part of the "oil-for-food" program. (New York Times, 25 May 1997, 10) |
| 26 May 1997 | According to the United Nations large numbers of Iraqis are still suffering from critical shortages of food and medicines. Iraq asks for the "oil-for-food" program to be expanded up to a ceiling of $4 billion. However, US still opposes relaxation of the sanctions and voices concern about the lack of transparency in relief distribution. (International Herald Tribune, 26 May 1997, 6) |
| 5 June 1997 | The UN Security Council extends the "oil-for-food" program for another six-month period at the same export level. (The New York Times, 5 June 1997, A3) |
| 18 June 1997 | Iraq announces it will not resume oil exports until agreement is reached with the UN on a less restrictive plan for purchasing food than the current arrangement, which requires the UN Sanctions Committee to approve each contract. (Dow Jones News, 18 June 1997) |
| August 1997 | Syria and Iraq discuss reopening a long-closed pipeline between the two countries. (Financial Times, 25 August 1997, 13) |
| 12 August 1997 | Having resumed oil exports, Iraq accuses US of blocking or delaying contracts for humanitarian imports, including a contract to import 100 ambulances from France. (Agence France Presse, 12 August 1997) |
| 24 October 1997 | The UN Security Council passes a US, UK-backed resolution condemning Iraq for continuing to hinder UNSCOM weapons inspectors and threatening a travel ban on responsible Iraqi officials if the obstruction continues. In response, the Iraqi National Assembly calls for the suspension of ties with UNSCOM until the UN sets a timetable for lifting sanctions; Iraq announces American inspectors will be given one week to leave the country. (Journal of Commerce, 27 October 1997, 8A; Financial Times, 29 October 1997, 8; Washington Post, 30 October 1997, A01) |
| End October 1997 | Iraq refuses entry to three Americans on a team of UN arms inspectors, and warns Iraqi anti-aircraft guns might fire upon US U-2 spy planes if surveillance flights continue. The UN sends a high-level diplomatic mission to resolve the budding crisis and Iraq delays the expulsion order against the American inspectors. (Washington Post, 3 November 1997, A1; Financial Times, 5 November 1997, 6) |
| 12 November 1997 | The UN Security Council unanimously approves a travel ban for senior Iraqi officials and demands that Iraq stop interfering with UN weapons inspectors. Iraq insists that the weapons teams have fewer Americans. When Iraq refuses to comply with UN demands, the weapons inspectors leave the country. Fears mount that Iraq could revive chemical and biological weapons programs without the oversight of the international community. Russia and France push for a diplomatic solution to the crisis, while Washington does not rule out a resort to the use of force. The United States increases its military presence in the Gulf. (Washington Post, 13 November 1997, A1; Washington Post, 18 November 1997, A22) |
| 21 November 1997 | After intense diplomacy by Security Council members, particularly Russia, Iraq agrees to allow UN weapon inspectors back into the country. Russia agrees to push for concessions, such as the easing of the UN sanctions, in return. The Security Council rebuffs a Russian request to declare Iraq free of nuclear weapons and nearly free of prohibited missiles. (Washington Post, 21 November 1997, A1; New York Times, 22 November 1997, A1) |
| 4 December 1997 | The Security Council renews Iraq's "oil-for-food" program at existing levels for the next six months, and announces that it will consider increasing the permitted amount in early 1998. (Washington Post, 5 December 1997, A45) |
| 16 January 1998 | A weapons inspection team leaves Iraq after being barred for three days from conducting an inspection. The UN Security Council deplores Iraq's decision, which constitutes a clear violation of UN resolutions. (CRS, 6 March 1998, 3) |
| 17 January 1998 | Saddam Hussein announces that Iraq will expel all weapons inspectors if sanctions against Iraq are not removed within six months. (CRS, 6 March 1998, 3) |
| End January 1998 | In response to Iraq's continued refusal to grant access for UN weapons inspectors, the United States and the UK discuss plans for a strategic bombing campaign to force Iraqi compliance. Meanwhile, three Catholic bishops begin a hunger strike to protest the sanctions against Iraq; fifty more bishops join them in signing a letter to President Clinton calling for the lifting of sanctions. (Washington Post, 21 January 1998, A10; New York Times, 26 January 1998, A1) |
| 3 February 1998 | US Secretary of Defense Cohen warns that if diplomacy fails, the United Sates will wage a "significant" military campaign against Iraq, "far more than what has been experienced in the past." (CRS, 6 March 1998, 5) |
| Mid-February 1998 | American forces continue to gather in the Gulf, with the full support of UK, Australia and Canada. After meeting with the five permanent members of the Security Council, UN Secretary General Kofi Annan travels to Baghdad in an attempt to avert military action in the crisis with Iraq. (Economist, 14-20 February 1998, 4; 21-27 February 1998, 4) |
| 20 February 1998 | The UN Security Council adopts Resolution 1153, which increases the export ceiling of the oil-for-food program to $5.2 billion over a six-month period. (USIS, 24 June 1998) |
| 23 February 1998 | UN Secretary General Annan and Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister Aziz sign an agreement that provides for immediate, unconditional and unrestricted access by UNSCOM inspectors throughout Iraq. Special procedures, allowing for appointed diplomats to accompany UN weapons inspectors, will govern the inspection of eight presidential sites. (CRS, 6 March 1998, 1, 6; Memorandum of Understanding Between the United Nations and the Republic of Iraq, 23 February 1998) |
| 3 March 1998 | The UN Security Council endorses the agreement negotiated by Kofi Annan in Resolution 1154 and warns Iraq of the "severest consequences" if it violates the terms of the agreement. (CRS, 6 March 1998, 1) |
| 26 March 1998 | UN weapons inspectors start their first inspection of a presidential site, previously declared off-limits by the Iraqi government. (Washington Post, 27 March 1998, A28) |
| 27 March 1998 | In order to offset the shortfall in Iraqi oil revenues resulting from delays and a drop in oil prices, the UN Security Council passes Resolution 1158, authorizing the sale of up to an additional $1.4 billion of Iraqi oil and oil products within a 90-day period. (USIS, 27 March 1998) |
| April 1998 | UNSCOM completes its initial inspections of Iraqi presidential sites, hails Iraqi cooperation and finds no prohibited weapons in the sites visited. However, inspectors are worried that their current access to sites might be endangered after Iraqi officials indicate that they understand the accord with UN Secretary General Kofi Annan to be of limited duration. (USIS, 3 April 1998; Washington Post, 15 April 1998, A10) |
| Mid-April 1998 | The IAEA reports that Iraq has successfully compiled a "full, final and complete" account of its past nuclear program and that 211 inspections since October 1997 have not enabled the agency to uncover any prohibited nuclear-related equipment or conduct of prohibited nuclear activities in Iraq. However, some specialists are worried that Iraq might restart its nuclear program as soon as the IAEA downgrades its extensive and intrusive verifications into a routine long-term monitoring program. (Washington Post, 11 April 1998, A11; New York Times, 19 April 1998, 4) |
| 17 April 1998 | UNSCOM Chairman Richard Butler reports that Baghdad has failed to provide sufficient evidence to UN weapons inspectors to prove that Iraq has entirely destroyed its biological, chemical and ballistic equipment and production capabilities. (USIS, 17 April 1998) |
| 21 April 1998 | UN oil experts report that, given current oil prices and the poor state of Iraq's oil industry, Iraq will be not able to fill its oil-for-food quota. UN Secretary General Kofi Annan recommends that the Security Council allow Iraq to import $300 million in oil equipment in order to increase its oil production capacities. (USIS, 21 April 1998) |
| 27 April 1998 | Ignoring threats from the Iraqi government that it would disrupt future arms inspections if sanctions were not lifted, the UN Security Council extends sanctions against Iraq for another six-month period. Russia proposes to ease inspections connected with Iraq's nuclear activities, but fails to gain the support of all Security Council members. Though acknowledging some progress in the nuclear area, the US calls the Russian initiative "premature" and voices concerns over Iraq's lack of progress on repatriation, return of property and human rights issues. (International Herald Tribune, 29 April 1998, 7; Washington Post, 28 April 1998, A33; USIS, 27 and 28 April 1998) |
| 28 April 1998 | Iraq's Foreign Minister Mohammed Saeed Sahhaf says that the agreement negotiated with Kofi Annan on presidential palaces does not entitle inspectors to an unlimited number of visits over an indefinite period. Such an interpretation clearly contradicts statements by Secretary General Annan and other UN officials. (Washington Post, 29 April 1998, A10) |
| 29 April 1998 | UNSCOM chief arms inspector Richard Butler reveals that experts discovered mustard gas in Iraqi artillery shells found at an ammunitions depot in 1996. The discovery raises new questions about similar shells that remain unaccounted for. (New York Times, 29 April 1998, A10) |
| 6 May 1998 | The head of UNSCOM Richard Butler notifies the Security Council that Iraq has granted weapons experts unrestricted and unconditional access to all sites. This notification is the condition for the lifting of a travel ban imposed on Iraqi officials in November 1997. The ban, which was not enforced because a list of individuals affected by the sanctions was never drawn up, is lifted without US objection. However, members of the Security Council still disagree on whether and when Iraq should be moved to a system of more-routine monitoring by the IAEA. (New York Times, 9 May 1998, A5; USIS, 7 May 1998) |
| 4 June 1998 | After a two-day presentation by UNSCOM to the UN Security Council, US ambassador to the UN Bill Richardson says Iraq may be close to fulfilling its obligations in the nuclear area. With continued compliance between now and the next sanctions review in October, Iraq could move from disarmament to the long-term monitoring phase for nuclear weapons. However, for chemical and biological weapons, Richardson says, Iraq is not close to fulfilling its obligations. (USIS, 4 June 1998) |
| 15 June 1998 | Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister Aziz and UNSCOM Chairman Butler announce that they have reached agreement on a two-month schedule and "road map" proposed by Butler to complete verification of Iraq's disarmament if Iraq provides complete information on its long-range ballistic missiles, production of nerve gasses VX or Soman, and details of past biological weapons program. Butler states, "The light at the end of the tunnel is today more visible that it has been for a very long time." (New York Times, 15 June 1998, A3; Financial Times, 15 June 1998, 4; Washington Post, 16 June 1998, A24) |
| 19 June 1998 | The New York Times publishes an article claiming the UN and the US are overlooking the smuggling of 50,000 to 60,000 barrels a day of Iraqi oil through Turkey. The Times claims Iraq is also exporting oil by sea through Iran and other countries. Together, these export account for almost 10% of its capacity. (New York Times, 19 June 1998, A10) |
| 19 June 1998 | The UN approves the Iraqi purchase of $300 million of spare parts to upgrade its oil production capacity. (Financial Times, 20-21 June 1998, 3) |
| 24 June 1998 | Contradicting claims it never weaponized the substance, UNSCOM chief Butler says tests at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland show Iraq loaded deadly VX gas onto a missile. Iraq claims bias in the test of warhead pieces; similar weapons fragments are tested in Switzerland and France to see whether the finding can be confirmed. (USIS, 24 June 1998; New York Times, 25 June 1998, A10) |
| 23 July 1998 | Iraqi authorities refuse to give UNSCOM documents that list weapons used by the Iraqi Air Force during the war with Iran. (Washington Post, 24 July 1998, A28) |
| 27 July 1998 | IAEA issues a report to the UN Security Council that says there is no evidence that Iraq has nuclear weapons. However, the agency admits Iraq could be hiding nuclear components. In response, Russia suggests moving from disarmament to long-term monitoring on Iraqi nuclear weapons. But US Ambassador to the UN Bill Richardson says the "nuclear file" on Iraq should not be closed. He maintains the report shows Iraq "has failed to provide information on weapons design, on uranium enrichment, on nuclear experts." (New York Times, 28 July 1998, A3; USIS, 29 July 1998; New York Times, 30 July 1998, A7) |
| 4 August 1998 | Iraq rejects Butler's blueprint for an accelerated schedule of inspections in coming weeks and demands that Butler report to the UN that the disarmament of weapons of mass destruction is completed. (Financial Times, 5 August 1998, 12; New York Times, 5 August 1998, A9) |
| 5 August 1998 | Iraq restricts activities of IAEA and orders an end to all UNSCOM inspections, except for those specifically approved by the Iraqi government. It allows long distance monitoring with video camera, as well as air, water and soil sampling, to continue. President Hussein demands that UNSCOM be restructured, Butler replaced, and that UNSCOM move its headquarters out of the United States. (Financial Times, 6 August 1998, 1; USIS, 6 August 1998; New York Times, 15 September 1998, A3; Wall Street Journal, 2 October 1998, A16) |
| 6 August 1998 | US Ambassador to the UN Bill Richardson assails Iraq for its actions, while UN Secretary-General Annan rejects Iraq's demands regarding UNSCOM as "not acceptable." (USIS, 6 August 1998; Financial Times, 7 August 1998, 1) |
| 25 August 1998 | UN Sub-Commission on Prevention of Discrimination and Protection of Minorities declares the sanctions against Iraq should be lifted. The Sub-Commission notes the "immense suffering endured by the Iraqi people, and by children in particular." (Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 26 August 1998) |
| 26 August 1998 | American inspector William Scott Ritter resigns from UNSCOM, arguing that in reality the UN Security Council wants only "the illusion of arms control" and that the Security Council and the US government have given in to the Iraqi government by acquiescing in restrictions on UNSCOM access to sensitive sites. (Washington Post, 27 August 1998, A28; New York Times, 27 August 1998, A1) |
| 3 September 1998 | After almost 18 years, Syria and Iraq reopen trade relations and plan to open an oil pipeline closed 16 years ago. (International Herald Tribune, 4 September 1998, 6) |
| 3 September 1998 | In a letter to Congress, President Clinton denounces Iraq's failure to allow weapons inspections, warns that, "If the Council fails to persuade the Iraqi regime to resume cooperation, all other options are on the table." (USIS, 3 September 1998) |
| 9 September 1998 | In the face of Iraqi intransigence on inspections, UN Security Council votes to end periodic reviews of the sanctions on Iraq, meaning they will not be lifted. (Reuters, 27 September 1998; New York Times, 10 September 1998, A10) |
| 14 September 1998 | Iraq's National Assembly threatens to end all cooperation with inspectors unless the Security Council resumes regular reviews of the sanctions. (New York Times, 15 September 1998, A3) |
| 17 September 1998 | The leaders of Iraq's two biggest Kurdish groups, previously bitter rivals, reach an agreement to cooperate. (Washington Post, 18 September 1998, A26) |
| 26 October 1998 | In report to the UN Security Council, panel of international scientists confirms results of US tests that showed traces of nerve gas VX on Iraqi warheads. French tests were found to been inconclusive, while no trace of any nerve gas was found in Swiss tests. Laboratory tests in all three countries, however, found traces of "decontamination agent" on decomposed warheads. (Times of London, 27 October 1998, 16; Washington Post, 28 October 1998, A18) |
| 31 October 1998 | President Clinton signs into law the Iraq Liberation Act, which appropriates $97 million to arm and assist Iraqi opposition groups so they can overthrow the Hussein government. The president comments, "This Act makes clear that it is the sense of the Congress that the United States should support those elements of the Iraqi opposition that advocate a very different future for Iraq than the bitter reality of internal repression and external aggression that the current regime in Baghdad now offers." (USIS, 2 November 1998) |
| 31 October 1998 | Iraq stops all cooperation with weapons inspectors, banning arms inspectors from visiting sites that have already been inspected and were being monitored by UNSCOM. Baghdad says sensors and monitors placed in sites can continued operating and also exempt the IAEA from its latest decision. (Financial Times, 2 November 1998, 1; Wall Street Journal, 2 November 1998, A4) |
| 3 November 1998 | Defense Secretary Cohen visits Saudi Arabia to meet with King Fahd; says US "will have the support it needs to take appropriate action…" with regard to Iraq. (Washington Post, 4 November 1998, A21) |
| 3 November 1998 | France recalls its representative in Baghdad. Russian Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov criticizes Iraq's belligerence. He calls it "inexplicable" that Baghdad is rejecting an offer to tie renewed cooperation with a comprehensive review of the sanctions, as proposed by Secretary General Annan. (Dow Jones, 3 November 1998; Washington Post, 7 November 1998, A11) |
| 5 November 1998 | The UN Security Council votes unanimously to condemn Iraq for its stance towards the weapons inspectors. Russia and China stress that the resolution does not mention the use of force to make Iraq comply. (New York Times, 6 November 1998, A1; Washington Post, 6 November 1998, A31) |
| Mid-November 1998 | US beefs up forces in Persian Gulf. (Washington Post, 12 November 1998, A1) |
| 11 November 1998 | US Treasury Department amends Iraqi Sanctions Regulations to allow American businessmen to sell oil field parts and equipment to Iraq, as provided in UN resolutions. (Journal of Commerce, 12 November 1998, 3A) |
| 11 November 1998 | UN evacuates 230 staff members from Iraq, and announces that 41 more will leave tomorrow. (New York Times, 12 November 1998, A12) |
| 12 November 1998 | Eight Arab states, including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Syria, release statement blaming Iraq for the present crisis. (New York Times, 13 November 1998, A12; Financial Times, 13 November 1998, 1) |
| 12 November 1998 | British Ministry of Defense publishes paper claiming that Iraqi President Hussein is diverting "huge sums of money" to pay for weapons of mass destruction, that Iraq "has the expertise and equipment to regenerate an offensive biological weapons capability within weeks," and that Iraq "could produce mustard gas almost immediately." (Financial Times, 13 November 1998, 8) |
| 14 November 1998 | Iraq's ambassador to the UN, Nizar Hamdoon, sends a letter to UN Secretary General Annan stating Iraq's "clear and unconditional decision … to resume cooperation with the United Nations Special Commission and the International Atomic Energy Agency." In response, President Clinton calls off bombing strike on Iraq at last minute; warns that Iraq will be bombed the next time it fails to comply with UN resolutions. (New York Times, 16 November 1998, A11; Financial Times, 16 November 1998, 1) |
| 15 November 1998 | President Clinton lists five criteria to judge Iraqi compliance with the UN: allowing inspectors complete access to sites; not hindering searches; resolving all issues raised by the inspectors; surrendering all relevant documents, and accepting all UN resolutions on weapons of mass destruction. (New York Times, 16 November 1998, A10) |
| 20 November 1998 | Shortly after UNSCOM inspectors resume their duties in Iraq, the Iraqi government refuses to provide 12 documents relating to weapons inventories. Iraqi Deputy Foreign Minister Riyadh al-Qaysi accuses the inspectors of "unjustifiably" prolonging their work, thereby extending the embargo. (Washington Post, 24 November 1998, A25; 18 November 1998, A33; Financial Times, 24 November 1998, 6) |
| 7 December 1998 | UNSCOM chief inspector Richard Butler announces that surprise inspections will resume, and that in the following week he will make a comprehensive report to the UN on whether Iraq is abiding by the inspections regime. (Washington Post, 8 December 1998, A32) |
| 15 December 1998 | Butler reports to the UN that Iraq continues to block it from performing its duties. Of the 12 sets of documents asked for by Butler immediately following the crisis, Iraq has handed over only one, and that one does not appear to meet UNSCOM's demands. (Washington Post, 16 December 1998, A16; New York Times, 16 December 1998, A4) |
| 16 December 1998 | Without consulting the UN Security Council, US President Clinton and UK Prime Minister Blair initiate military action against Iraq. Some Republican congressmen and politicians, including Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott, criticize the timing of the action, which comes the day before the House of Representatives is scheduled to begin debate on articles of impeachment against the President. Other Republican congressmen, however, join with Democratic leaders in supporting the attack. On the first night of "Operation Desert Fox", over 200 cruise missiles are fired at Iraqi targets. (New York Times, 17 December 1998, A1; Washington Post, 17 December 1998, A1) |
| 16 December 1998 | Japan and Germany express sympathy for the US-UK action against Iraq. But France, China and Russia express displeasure. (Washington Post, 17 December 1998, A29) |
| 17 December 1998 | Russia recalls its ambassador to the US for consultations. The government releases a statement in which it claims that "The entire system of international security, with the UN and the Security Council as the centerpiece, has been undermined." President Hosni Mubarak of Egypt releases a statement condemning Richard Butler for hav |