1985 Assad reelected president. USA claims Syrian links to airport bombings at Rome and Vienna. 1986 Syrian complicity alleged in planting of bomb aboard Israeli airliner in London. EU, except for Greece, imposes sanctions. 1989 Diplomatic relations reestablished with Egypt.
Troops take part in Operation Desert Storm to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi forces.
Diplomatic relations with UK restored. 1991 Damascus Declaration aid and defense pact signed with Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman. 1992 Assad reelected president. Assad reconfirmed in office.