King Amalric I of Jerusalem, and a Zengid army under Shirkuh, both hoped to take the control of Egypt over from the Fatimid Caliphate.

The result was a tactical draw between the forces, however the Crusaders failed to gain access to Egypt.

Nur al-Din embraced jihad ideals when battling against the Franks and was a crucial figure in the recovery of Jerusalem.

Shawar required the support of Nur al-Din’s generals to gain control.

[7] Shirkuh had the ability to conduct politics and aspired to become Nur al-Din’s right-hand man.

In 1167, Amalric wanted to destroy the Zengid army sent by Nur al-Din from Syria.

[15] Because Amalric was an ally and protector of the Fatimid government, fighting in the Battle of al-Babein was in his best interest.

Since both sides wanted to be in charge of Egypt, whoever won the battle would accomplish that goal.

King Amalric ordered only his mounted forces to chase Shirkuh and the Muslims out of Egypt at the beginning of the battle.

[18] The chase almost worked, but the Muslims turned to fight Amalric where the cultivated ground ended and the desert began.

[19] The steep slopes and soft sand reduced the effectiveness of the Latin army.

Shirkuh’s plan was for the Latin cavalry charge to find no worthy target.

The Franks lost one hundred knights and failed to destroy Shrikuh’s army.