On January 27, 1605, during a civil war in Morocco, the Moroccan sultan, Mohammed esh Sheikh el Mamun, was defeated by his brother, Zidan Abu Maali.

There he signed a treaty with Philip III of Spain, whereby he obtained military support in return for ceding the northern Moroccan port of Larache.

[1] At the time of the expulsion of Morsicos from Spain, Sidi al-Ayachi rose in fame, devouring himself to launch a holy war against the Christians.

Al-Ayachi ordered his execution, but Ibn Aboud begged for support in exchange for his life.

Ibn Aboud reported that a group of Arab tribes were camping on a hill close to the town, and a potential attack would result in a large amount of loot.