It was called "The mother of all wars" (Saddam Hussein), "The First Gulf War (Israel) and "Operation Desert Storm" (USA); however, in Israeli consciousness it will remain a traumatic experience taking a long time to heal, if at all.
Everyone remembers the shudder taking hold of each and every one of us on hearing the "Nahash Zefa" (viper) code word, broadcast a minute before a Scud missile attack on Israel. Who can forget preparing the "Sealed Room" supposedly sealed from gas attacks, and spending time in it, carrying a gas mask 24/7, the map dividing the country to ten alarm zones, the continuous news broadcasting, as well as the "silent radio station" warning about missile attacks at night and on weekends; the American Patriot "anti-missile" systems, not to mention the TV satirical shows, and above all the IDF spokesman, Nachman Shai, the "National Calmer" advising us to "drink water."
The Gulf War broke on January 17, 1991, following Saddam's rejection of the American ultimatum. The opening shot was a large aerial attack by the coalition armies and the destruction of the Iraqi air force. Next were destroyed the Iraqi command and communication centers, and the third and largest stage included the destruction of targets all over Iraq and Kuwait – Scud Missile sites, armament industries and the Iraqi navy.
The multiple Scud attacks on Israel, lasting six weeks, in an attempt to involve Israel in the war, created a new consciousness in the country – the entire state is at war, especially the civilian rear – a consciousness which was sharpened later in the Second Lebanon War, and during Israel periodical brawls with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. 39 missiles were launched at Israel, mainly damaging property, but also tens of casualties and two deaths (three persons died due to panic and heart failure).
The following photographs were taken by Ba'Mahane photographers and are stored in The IDF and Defense Establishment Archive photography collection
Other photographs and collection are stored in The IDF and Defense Establishment Archive, which you are invited to visit.