What was the first ground engagement with Iraqi forces during Operation Desert Storm?

The first ground engagement with Iraqi forces during Operation Desert Storm occurred at Al-Khafji. This battle, which took place in late January 1991, involved a combined effort of U.S. and coalition forces as they engaged the Iraqi army in the Kuwaiti town of Al-Khafji. It marked the beginning of significant ground combat in the liberation of Kuwait following the build-up of forces during Operation Desert Shield. The successful defense of Al-Khafji and subsequent operations demonstrated the effectiveness of coalition forces and set the tone for future engagements throughout the conflict.

The other locations mentioned, like Fallujah, Baghdad, and Basra, were significant in later conflicts or different contexts but were not part of the initial ground confrontations during the opening stages of Operation Desert Storm.