In early April 623, the Byzantines, led by Heraclius, invaded Persarmenia and defeated Khosrow's army at the Battle of Ganzak.

After this victory, Heraclius moved into the depths of the Caucasus.

However, the Byzantines managed to successfully retreat to the north, where they stayed for the winter.

By the spring of the following year, the army of Heraclius was surrounded by three Persian armies, under the command of Shahin, Shahrvaraz and Shahraplakan.

Having selected the best soldiers from his army, he abruptly moved to the west, caught Shahin's army by surprise and defeated it, and then moved to meet Shahrvaraz.