Psychological Consequences of the 1991 Gulf War

Abstract

Abstract. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the military and political nature of the 1991 Gulf War and examines its comprehensive impact on the geopolitical balance of the Middle East region. The study describes in detail the objectives, strategic goals, and implementation stages of the operations “Desert Shield” and “Desert Storm,” conducted by the U.S.-led international coalition against Iraq. Within the framework of the liberation of Kuwait, particular attention is given to the coordination of ground, naval, and air forces, the emergence of new tactical models of warfare, and the dominance of high-technology weaponry. In addition, the article addresses key political issues such as transformations in the international relations system, the impact of the war on the authority of the United Nations, and the strengthening of the United States’ global leadership. The author analyzes changes in the balance of power in the Middle East, the consequences of economic sanctions imposed on Iraq, and factors contributing to long-term regional instability. The research is not limited to military strategy and also examines the social and psychological consequences of the war. It explores the moral condition of soldiers serving in coalition forces and the Iraqi army, psychological pressure experienced during combat, separation from family members, difficulties of post-war adaptation, and manifestations of post-traumatic stress disorder through specific examples. Furthermore, the article analyzes the representation of the military conflict in the media space, the use of early forms of information warfare, and the formation of public perceptions of the war.