 While the political grievances articulated by the Free Lions, like those of their allies the Beja Congress, revolve around the effects of large mechanized agricultural schemes upon traditional life, the act which mobilized the Rashaida into action was the government confiscation of 400 vehicles the government of Kuwait had given them in thanks for their political support during the 1991 Gulf War.The Rashaida had immigrated from Saudi Arabia only in the late 19th century and have extensive family ties with Kuwait.In March 2005, the Free Lions agreed to an alliance with the larger Beja Congress under the Eastern Front umbrella.