Kuwait commemorates one of the most pivotal chapters in its history—the 35th anniversary of the brutal Iraqi invasion. This was not merely a military assault but a humanitarian catastrophe unparalleled in the region, marking the beginning of a national ordeal that shook the conscience of every citizen. It left an indelible scar on hearts and a tragic imprint on the collective memory of the nation, the Arab world, and the international community.

This anniversary stands as a testament to the resilience, unity, and sacrifices of the Kuwaiti people during the invasion, which constituted a blatant violation of international law and all humanitarian and diplomatic conventions. The memory of that dark day remains alive in the hearts of Kuwaitis who endured the bitterness of occupation, as well as in the souls of the new generation who did not witness it but live its narrative through the memories of their fathers and grandfathers.

For this generation of Kuwaitis, the anniversary stirs mixed emotions—grief and pain as they recall the chapter of occupation and destruction at the outset of the story, and joy, pride, and honor as they remember the winds of liberation and the defeat of tyranny in its finale.

Kuwaitis have always believed that a homeland is not measured by its size but by the worth of its people and their faith. Unity, loyalty to wise leadership, and trust in the justice of their cause have been their true weapons against oppression.

In the early hours of August 2, 1990, Iraqi forces invaded Kuwait in a treacherous act of aggression, aiming to occupy the country by force, strip it of freedom, and obliterate its legitimacy. The invaders employed the most brutal methods—killing, arrests, torture, shelling civilian and military sites, looting property, and terrorizing the innocent.

Yet, despite the brutality, the Kuwaiti people proved to the world that love for one’s homeland is invincible, and faith in legitimacy and national unity is stronger than any tyrannical force. Kuwait could not be erased; the voice of its people never faded. Instead, it echoed across the globe, demanding justice and calling upon the world to rescue the land of peace.

The finest examples of sacrifice and heroism emerged during the resistance to occupation, as the people stood firmly behind their legitimate leadership. The light of the Kuwaiti resistance shone brightly, dealing painful blows to the invaders, sowing fear in their ranks, and uplifting the morale of the people. Their message to the world was clear: Kuwaitis rejected the Iraqi occupation, resisted its presence, and fought for their freedom and sovereignty—whatever the cost.

Kuwaitis, both leadership and citizens, demonstrated unparalleled courage, proving that patriotism is measured not by words but by actions and sacrifices. They wrote luminous pages in the nation’s history through their steadfastness.

The people formed specialized military units to resist the occupiers and inflict maximum damage, while other groups undertook critical roles in media, supply distribution, sanitation, healthcare, and logistical support. History will never forget the vital role of Kuwaiti women in confronting the Iraqi occupation. They etched an epic tale of defending their homeland, participating in all forms of resistance—from supplying fighters with weapons and provisions to engaging in military operations, capturing enemy soldiers, and ultimately contributing to liberation.

Kuwait’s wise leadership at the time exerted tremendous efforts to rally Arab and international support for its just cause, while taking decisive steps to liberate the nation, restore sovereignty, and bring security back to its land.

The world heeded the call of justice. The UN Security Council’s permanent members united in response to Iraq’s aggression, swiftly adopting Resolution 660, which condemned the invasion and demanded the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of all Iraqi forces. In compliance with UN resolutions, Arab and international troops deployed to Saudi Arabia, forming the coalition that liberated Kuwait in February 1991 through Operation Desert Storm. Kuwait emerged free and proud, its flag soaring high once more.

This support from brotherly and friendly forces was a reflection of Kuwait’s esteemed standing, earned through its wise policies, honorable stances, balanced relations with global and regional organizations, and its tradition of providing aid to those in need worldwide. Kuwait’s charitable institutions have played a prominent role in alleviating global crises, extending urgent assistance to the afflicted and impoverished across continents.

Kuwaitis will never forget this anniversary. It is not merely a date but a solemn tribute to the sacrifices of martyrs, the steadfastness of resisters, and the loyalty of a people who refused to bow. They carried Kuwait’s banner aloft, ensuring the memory remains a lesson for future generations—a testament to confronting tyranny and defending homelands.

Today, we live in a thriving, secure, and dignified nation under the banner of wise leadership. We draw from their resolve to continue the journey, imparting the lessons of the past to future generations. We renew our pledge of allegiance to this beloved homeland, which shall forever remain free, unbroken in resolve, its flag eternally unfurled."**