Battle of the Camel
656 CE · Near Basra (modern Basra, Iraq) · World · Medieval
Ali's army broke the opposing formation; fighting raged to the last around the camel Aisha rode, and Talha and Zubayr were killed in battle.
Belligerents
Ali's side
- Commanders
- Ali ibn Abi Talib
- Strength
- Kufan army
Anti-Ali coalition
- Commanders
- Aisha, Talha, Zubayr
- Strength
- Basran coalition
Background
After Caliph Uthman was assassinated, the Muslim community split, and Aisha joined Talha and Zubayr in rising in revolt against Ali.
Course of the battle
- StandoffThe two armies formed up facing each other outside Basra.
- MeleeThe two sides fought fiercely over the camel Aisha was riding.
- Decisive blowThe camel's reins were cut, the coalition's formation collapsed, and Talha and Zubayr were killed in battle.
Outcome at a glance
| Date | 656 CE |
|---|---|
| Place | Near Basra (present-day Basra, Iraq) |
| Result | Ali's army broke the opposing formation; fighting raged to the last around the camel Aisha rode, and Talha and Zubayr were killed in battle. |
| Winner | Ali's side |
| Casualties | The anti-Ali coalition suffered heavy losses; Aisha was captured and then courteously escorted back to Medina. |
| Territorial change | Ali consolidated his control over the Kufa region, but the rifts within the Muslim community deepened. |
Impact
The key battle of the First Fitna, in which the Muslim community openly took up arms against itself for the first time.
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