The independent Kabyle Kingdom of Beni Abbas had enjoyed friendly relations with the Regency of Algiers and even fought together against the Saadians in 1551.

In 1552 Salah Reis and Sultan Abdelaziz of Kalaa led a joint successful expedition to Touggourt and Ouargla.

[2][3] Salah Reis advanced with 3000 musketeers and 1000 spahis as well as 8000 Kabyle auxiliaries commanded by Sultan Abdelaziz.

[1] Sultan Abdelaziz was unhappy with the share of booty that had been allocated to him and therefore the Turks suspected him of being an enemy and Hassan Corso denounced him as such.

[1] Abdelaziz attacked Sinan Reis at Oued-el-Lhâm where he massacred the Turks and emerged victorious from the battle.