Operation Desert Fox

Operation Desert Fox was the military codename for a major three-day bombing campaign on Iraqi targets from December 16-December 18, 1998 by the United States and United Kingdom.

Related Topics:
Military - December 16 - December 18 - 1998 - United States - United Kingdom

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It was a major flare-up in the Iraq disarmament crisis. The stated goal of the cruise missile and bombing attacks was to "degrade" Saddam Hussein's ability to produce weapons of mass destruction.

Related Topics:
Iraq disarmament crisis - Cruise missile - Weapons of mass destruction

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In reaction to the attack, three of five permanent members of the UN Security Council (Russia, France, and the People's Republic of China) called for lifting of the eight-year oil embargo on Iraq, recasting or disbanding UNSCOM, and firing its chairman, Australian diplomat Richard Butler.

Related Topics:
UN Security Council - Russia - France - People's Republic of China - UNSCOM - Australia - Diplomat - Richard Butler

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The strikes came at a particularly difficult time for US President Bill Clinton, as he was impeached on December 19.

Related Topics:
US President - Bill Clinton - Impeached - December 19

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:See also: Iraq disarmament crisis timeline 1997-2000

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