The Gulf War (often called the Persian Gulf War or First Gulf War) took place from 1990 to 1991.

  • Iraq invaded Kuwait on 2 August 1990, which started the crisis and the wider conflict often dated as 2 August 1990 – 28 February 1991.
  • The main combat phase, known as Operation Desert Storm, ran from 17 January 1991 to 28 February 1991.

So, if you just want a simple date-style answer:

  • Gulf War period: 1990–1991
  • Full crisis: 2 August 1990 – 28 February 1991