[2] The union was suggested by John of Ibelin, Isabella's granduncle and the leading nobleman of the Kingdom of Jerusalem, when he reconciled with Henry's father following the War of the Lombards.
Hugh was then regarded as heir presumptive of King Conrad III of Jerusalem, who lived in Europe, and was entitled to rule the mainland kingdom too as regent.
As the young king's only surviving aunt and closest relative, Isabella was entitled to be the next regent of Cyprus.
Isabella stepped forward only after the Mamluk ruler of Egypt, Baibars, attacked Acre, the seat of the royal government.
The law stated that the claimant to bailliage had to bring their ward when appearing before the High Court of Jerusalem.