Final answer:
The United Nations formed a coalition of 39 countries and initiated Operation Desert Storm in response to Iraq's failure to withdraw from Kuwait as per the January 15, 1991 deadline, successfully forcing Iraqi withdrawal and upholding international law.
Step-by-step explanation:
United Nations Response to Iraqi Invasion of Kuwait
In response to the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in August 1990 by Saddam Hussein, the United Nations (UN) took significant measures to address the violation of international law. The UN Security Council set a strict deadline of January 15, 1991, for Iraq to withdraw from Kuwait. When Iraq failed to comply, a United Nations coalition force of 39 countries, led by Operation Desert Storm, launched military operations on January 17, 1991, to force the Iraqi withdrawal and reinforce international laws and the authority of the UN. The UN's actions demonstrated a strong intolerance for military aggression and emphasized the importance of international cohesion and legal frameworks.
Outcome of the Coalition's Military Action
The UN coalition, with the United States at the forefront, initiated a powerful offensive against Iraqi forces. The military campaign began with an aerial bombardment followed by a ground assault under Operation Desert Storm. The ground forces commenced their attack on February 24, 1991, and within four days, achieved overwhelming victory, leading to the withdrawal of Iraqi forces from Kuwait. This successful outcome led to celebrations and a rise in the prestige of the UN as an effective international body.