The US position on Iraqi-Kuwaiti relations (1961-1990)

Abstract

Iraqi-Kuwaiti relations witnessed a noticeable tension in the sixties of the last century, as that period was decisive in shaping the nature of relations between the two countries. The events that took place during that period can be viewed. In 1961, Kuwait gained its independence from Britain, and this event was a turning point in relations with Iraq. There were ongoing disputes between Iraq and Kuwait over the borders ,Iraq claimed parts of Kuwait's territory, justifying this by saying that Kuwait had been part of the Ottoman province of Basra before becoming an independent state in 1961 ,Shortly after independence, Iraq, under the leadership of Abdul Karim Qasim, declared Kuwait part of Iraq, which led to a political and military crisis. Iraq's claim to Kuwait led to British military intervention , British forces were deployed to Kuwait to protect it, and the British forces were later replaced by Arab forces affiliated with the Arab League. This crisis led to significant tensions in the region and affected relations between the two countries for years. In 1963, the new Iraqi government, led by Abdul Salam Arif, recognized Kuwait's independence, which eased tensions between the two countries. An agreement was signed between the two countries recognizing the border between them, but some border issues remained unresolved .

For a long time, the sixty-year period was full of challenges in the Iraqi-Kuwaiti relations, as it was punctuated by political crises and border tensions, especially due to border issues and mercenary claims. Although Kuwait gained its independence, Iraq was completing the independence of Kuwait indirectly, which led to tension in relations between the two control. Despite this control, the government tried to maintain political relations with Kuwait ,Especially with regard to inter-Arab relations and interests in the region, in addition to the tensions between the two countries, there were also interventions from major powers such as Britain and the United States ,which had a significant influence in shaping regional policies during that period. Overall, relations between Iraq and Kuwait in the 1960s were dominated by tensions due to border and political issues, an issue that continues to affect relations between the two countries to this day .