What event marked the beginning of Operation DESERT SHIELD?

The beginning of Operation DESERT SHIELD was marked by King Fahd of Saudi Arabia inviting friendly nations to participate in the defense of his kingdom. This invitation was crucial as it set the stage for an international coalition to respond to the threat posed by Iraq after it invaded Kuwait. King Fahd’s request for assistance was a reflection of the urgency and seriousness of the situation, as it enabled the deployment of multinational forces to Saudi Arabia, thereby reinforcing the defense of the region.

While the other events are significant in the broader context of the Gulf War, they occurred after the initial invitation. The U.S. declaring war on Iraq and the coalition forces launching air strikes happened later in the timeline once military action was deemed necessary. The Iraqi invasion of Kuwait was the catalyst for the situation but did not itself initiate Operation DESERT SHIELD; rather, it prompted the response that followed. Therefore, the invitation by King Fahd was the definitive action that marked the beginning of this defensive operation.