The lessons of August 2 live on

01/08/2026

Some dates become more than moments in history. They become lessons that shape a nation. For Kuwait, August 2 is one of those dates. It reminds us not only of the pain of the 1990 invasion, but also of the strength, unity, and resilience that carried our country through its darkest hours. Those same lessons continue to guide us today as Kuwait faces the current Iranian aggression. The Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in 1990 changed the lives of every Kuwaiti family. It was a day of fear, uncertainty, and heartbreak. Families were separated, homes were lost, and many brave men and women made the ultimate sacrifice.

The scars of those days remain, and they always will. Yet from that tragedy came something stronger. Kuwaitis stood together. They supported one another, refused to lose hope, and never stopped believing that their country would be free again. That spirit became one of the greatest chapters in Kuwait’s history.

Today, thirty-six years later, we see that same spirit once again. As Kuwait faces the current Iranian aggression, our people have remained united, calm, and determined. The challenges are different, but the values are the same. Love of country, trust in our leadership, and standing together in difficult times continue to define Kuwait. We also remember with gratitude the countries that stood beside Kuwait in 1990 and helped restore our freedom, especially the GCC, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Australia, Argentina (the only Latin American country in the coalition), Japan (which contributed US$13 billion as one of the largest financial supporters), and the many other members of the international coalition. We also remember the friendship of Bangladesh and its support during Kuwait’s post-war recovery.

Their support will always be remembered. At the same time, we pay tribute to our martyrs and to everyone who sacrificed for the future of our homeland. Their courage will never be forgotten. For younger generations, August 2 is more than a history lesson. It is a reminder that peace cannot be taken for granted. Independence, security, and stability are precious. They must be protected every day through unity, responsibility, and loyalty to our nation. The lessons of August 2 did not end with liberation.

They continue to guide us through every challenge Kuwait faces today. They remind us that our greatest strength has always been the unity of everyone who calls Kuwait home. Kuwaitis and residents alike have stood together in difficult times, supporting one another with resilience and hope. May God continue to protect Kuwait, its leadership, its people, and all who live in this beloved country, and may our homeland always remain safe, secure, and united.

By Nasser Al-Hajeri