Palestinian exodus from Kuwait (1990–91)

The Palestinian exodus from Kuwait refers to the mass departure of Palestinians residing in Kuwait in the period following the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in August 1990 and the subsequent Gulf War in 1991. Before the invasion, Palestinians constituted a significant portion of Kuwait's population, estimated to be between 300,000 and 400,000 people.

The exodus was driven by a complex interplay of factors, including:

• Allegations of Palestinian support for the Iraqi invasion: The Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and its leader, Yasser Arafat, had expressed a degree of support for Saddam Hussein's actions, viewing him as a potential ally against Israel. This stance was seen by many Kuwaitis as a betrayal, leading to widespread resentment and hostility towards the Palestinian community.

• Perceived collaboration with Iraqi forces: There were accusations that some Palestinians collaborated with the Iraqi occupation forces, although the extent of this collaboration remains debated. These accusations further fueled anti-Palestinian sentiment.

• Discriminatory policies and treatment: Following the liberation of Kuwait, the Kuwaiti government implemented policies that discriminated against Palestinians. These included restrictions on employment, residency, and access to services. Many Palestinians were dismissed from their jobs and found it increasingly difficult to sustain themselves in Kuwait.

• Fear of persecution and violence: The atmosphere of hostility and suspicion created a climate of fear for Palestinians in Kuwait. Reports of harassment, intimidation, and violence against Palestinians contributed to the decision to leave.

• Loss of economic opportunities: The economic disruption caused by the invasion and the subsequent discrimination made it difficult for Palestinians to maintain their livelihoods.

As a result of these factors, hundreds of thousands of Palestinians left Kuwait in the months following the Gulf War. Many returned to the Palestinian territories, while others sought refuge in other countries. The exodus significantly reduced the size of the Palestinian community in Kuwait and had a lasting impact on both Kuwaiti society and the Palestinian diaspora. It also strained relations between Kuwait and the Palestinian leadership for many years. The event remains a sensitive and controversial topic, marked by differing perspectives on the causes and consequences of the exodus.