A chronology of the crisis : From August 1 through 5 , Iraq threatened , invaded then consolidated its hold on Kuwait . August 6 through 9 , the United Nations orders a trade embargo against Iraq ; the U.S. begins a regional military buildup ; Iraq closes its borders . August 10 through 13 , Arab countries participate in the defense of Saudi Arabia . Saddam seeks Arab support by involving Israel in any possible settlement . August 14 through 16 , King Hussein of Jordan fails in his mediation efforts . _ Bush orders deployment of U.S. combat troops and warplanes to Saudi Arabia. August 17 through 21 , the U.S. increases its buildup and embargo ##es . Iraq uses hostages as shields at military installations .
A chronology of the crisis : From August 1 through 5 , Iraq threatened , invaded then consolidated its hold on Kuwait . August 6 through 9 , the United Nations orders a trade embargo against Iraq ; the U.S. begins a regional military buildup ; Iraq closes its borders . August 10 through 13 , Arab countries participate in the defense of Saudi Arabia . Saddam seeks Arab support by involving Israel in any possible settlement . August 14 through 16 , King Hussein of Jordan fails in his mediation efforts . August 17 through 21 , the U.S. increases its buildup and embargo ##es . Iraq uses hostages as shields at military installations .