The Gulf War began on August 2, 1990 when Iraq invaded Kuwait, wanting control of their oil reserves. In response, a US-led coalition formed to force Iraq's withdrawal from Kuwait. After passing UN resolutions and deadlines, the coalition launched an air campaign on January 16, 1991 followed by a ground invasion on February 24th. By February 26th, a decisive tank battle against the Republican Guard occurred, and on February 28th a ceasefire was declared, forcing the withdrawal of Iraqi troops from Kuwait and ending the Gulf War.