The launch of Operation Iraqi Freedom to 'Mission Accomplished'

A US soldier watches as a statue of Saddam Hussein is pulled down in Baghdad in April 9, 2003. Credit: Reuters/Goran Tomasevic

A look back at the start of Operation Iraqi Freedom to US President George Bush's famous declaration of "Mission Accomplished" in 2003.

The invasion of Iraq began on the 20th March after US-led forces launched their military operation to remove Iraq's President Saddam Hussein .

Here is a timeline of the start of the conflict :

  • 17 March: President Bush issues a final ultimatum to Saddam Hussein, 48 hours before the start of the war.

  • 19 March: The start of Operation Iraqi Freedom, is announced by President Bush as tells the nation that US forces are beginning their military operation in Iraq.

  • 20 March: US-led forces invaded Iraq from Kuwait as the "Shock and Awe' campaign begun at 0534 local time (0234 GMT).

A huge explosion hits one of Saddam Hussein's palaces during air strikes in March 2003. Credit: Reuters

A short time after the air strikes began, Iraqi TV broadcast what it said was a live speech by Saddam Hussein.

Iraqi President Saddam Hussein appeared defiant as the invasion was launched Credit: Reuters

Later that day, UK Prime Minister Tony Blair advised the nation that British forces were in action in Iraq.

Prime Minister Tony Blair told the nation that British troops were "engaged from air, land and sea" in the war against Iraq. Credit: PA/PA Archive/Press Association Images

  • 21 March: On day two of the mission, US and British forces launch their offensive into southern Iraq, including Basra, Iraq's second city.

British Royal Marines from 40 Commando are seen after securing al-Faw oil field in southern Iraq

  • 23 March: The Battle for Nassiriya was one of the first major battles of the invasion between Iraqi forces and US marines. A lot was at stake as the city was on the way to Baghdad. The Marines eventually passed after heavy fighting.

Report by James Mates

  • 27 March: Tony Blair and George Bush meet at US presidential retreat Camp David to discuss the progress of the war in Iraq and plans for the post-war reconstruction.

Tony Blair and George Bush held a joint news conference at Camp David. Credit: Reuters/Kevin Lamarque

  • 6 April: Just over two weeks after the start of the conflict, the British 7th Armoured Brigade entered Basra.

A British Warrior armoured combat vehicle drives into a picture of Saddam Hussein in the city of Basra Credit: Reuters/Mark Richards
A little girl is held as families flee Basra as the siege by US and British troops intensifies. Credit: Reuters

  • 9 April: Less than a month after the operation began, US forces captured Baghdad, Iraq's capital city. It was a landmark moment.

A statue of Saddam Hussein is pulled down in central Baghdad in April 9, 2003. Credit: Reuters

  • 1 May: Standing aboard the aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln, President Bush declared an end to major combat in Iraq.

President Bush declares an end to major combat in Iraq

It conservatively appeared as though the war was officially over but in reality it was just beginning.