The Gulf War was a conflict between Iraq and a UN force led by the United States from January 17, 1991 through February 27, 1991. It came about because of Iraq's invasion of neighboring Kuwait. Iraqi forces were led by Saddam Hussein, while the UN forces were led by American General Norman Schwarzkopf. The UN forces bombed Iraq's communications, air defenses, and early warning radar. Casualty numbers were lower than in previous conflicts due to the use of an aerial campaign. Total American casualties were 770.