What was the primary focus of Operation Desert Shield?

Operation Desert Shield, which took place in 1990-1991, was primarily focused on the protection of Saudi Arabia and the Gulf states from the potential threat posed by Iraq following its invasion of Kuwait. The key elements driving this operation included the concern for regional stability, the security of oil supplies, and the prevention of the further proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

The massive oil reserves in the Gulf made the region strategically important, not only for the United States but for the global economy as well. Protecting this vital resource was essential, as Iraq's aggression posed a risk not only to these nations but also to the broader interests of countries that depended on Middle Eastern oil. Therefore, ensuring that Iraq could not capitalize on its military advantage to control these resources was a significant priority during Operation Desert Shield.

This focus on oil and the potential threat of weapons of mass destruction directly characterized the operation's strategic objectives, making it distinct in its approach to securing the region against Iraqi aggression.