During which operation were U.S. forces present in Panama from December 20, 1989, to January 30, 1990?

The correct choice refers to the operation known as the Panama Peace Keeping Mission, which involved U.S. forces deployed in Panama from December 20, 1989, to January 30, 1990. This operation was primarily aimed at safeguarding U.S. citizens living in Panama, ensuring the safety of the Panama Canal, and overthrowing the regime of General Manuel Noriega, who was involved in drug trafficking and had become increasingly hostile towards the U.S.

This mission evolved into a significant military operation often referred to as "Operation Just Cause." While the name "Panama Peace Keeping Mission" may not be the official name used in every context, it effectively captures the essence of the U.S. objective during this time period, which was partly to restore democracy and peace in the region.

The other options represent different military actions:

• Operation Northern/Southern Watch refers to operations monitoring and enforcing no-fly zones in Iraq following the Gulf War.

• Operation Restore Hope was a humanitarian mission in Somalia aimed at providing relief during a famine and civil war.

• The Grenada Peace Keeping Mission concerns a U.S. invasion of Grenada in 1983 to restore a pro-Western government.

Each of these operations occurred in different contexts and timeframes