What was the primary event that led to Operation Desert Storm?

The primary event that led to Operation Desert Storm was Iraq's refusal to withdraw troops from Kuwait. In August 1990, Iraq invaded Kuwait, claiming that the small nation was historically part of its territory and accusing it of exceeding oil production limits, which harmed Iraq's economy. This invasion prompted widespread condemnation and mobilization of international forces, as it was viewed as a direct threat to regional stability and security.

In response to Iraq's aggression, the United Nations imposed economic sanctions on Iraq and passed various resolutions demanding that Iraqi forces withdraw from Kuwait. When Iraq failed to comply with these resolutions, a coalition of nations, led by the United States, executed a military operation called Operation Desert Storm in January 1991, aimed at liberating Kuwait and restoring its sovereignty. This operation represented a significant combined effort by multiple countries to address Iraq's defiance and aggressive actions in the region.

The other choices do not accurately capture the catalyst for the operation; the American-led attack on Afghan forces had no connection to this conflict, while Saudi Arabia's request for military assistance was a subsequent event related to their concerns over Iraqi aggression rather than the initiating factor.