Florida Civics EOC Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The Gulf War was triggered by Iraq's annexation of Kuwait in August 1990. This event was significant because Iraq, under the leadership of Saddam Hussein, claimed Kuwait as a part of its territory and sought to take control of the country's oil reserves. The invasion was met with widespread international condemnation, as it violated Kuwait's sovereignty and threatened regional stability. In response, a coalition of countries, led by the United States, was formed to oppose Iraq's aggression, ultimately leading to military action in January 1991 to liberate Kuwait.

The other options do not accurately represent the initial triggering event of the Gulf War. Iraq's invasion of Saudi Arabia did not occur, nor was it a cause for the conflict. Iran's missile attack on Iraq happened during the Iran-Iraq War, which was a separate context. Lastly, while the discovery of oil in the Persian Gulf has significant geopolitical implications, it did not serve as a specific event that triggered the Gulf War. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the direct action taken by Iraq that initiated the conflict.