During the aftermath of the Persian Gulf War, three American soldiers (Clooney, Wahlberg, and Cube) in Saudia Arabia are eager to get home. However, after finding a treasure map that might lead to the gold Saddam Hussein stole from Kuait, they decide to re-think their travel plans.
Major Archie Gates (Clooney) leads the men on their treasure hunt with a ruthless reporter (Nora Dunn) close behind them. Meanwhile, there is a battle Kurd rebels are desperately trying to survive. They soon find they are conflicted between their greed for the gold and the plight of the people of Iraq.