How far is it correct to describe the First Gulf War as the first act of US Hegemony in the post-cold war period?

OR

The UN along with many other countries of the world refused to give their mandate to „Operation Iraqi Freedom‟? Elucidate their stand.

The First Gulf War was an act of the US leadership as it was led by the American General Norman Schwarzkopf. The coalition forces consisted of 75% army from the US itself. This war also showed the vast technological difference between the US and the rest of the world. So, it is correct to describe the “First Gulf War” as the first act of US Hegemony in the post-cold war period.

OR

On 19th March 2003, US government began the invasion of troops, under the name ‘Operation Iraqi Freedom’.Many countries also joined hands with the US and formed a coalition for this operation. But, the UN refused to give their mandate and also called this an ‘illegal war’. The US had invaded only to establish control over Iraq, as it was the second largest oil producing country in the world. Even after the invasion, there were no traces of any lethal weapons. No link could be traced between Saddam Hussein and Al Qaeda.