Since the Naval War of 1811, Diplomatic relations between Algiers and Tunis were disrupted by preparations and hostilities near the common border.

[2] Although the idea of a peaceful settlement was embraced by both nations, on July 24, 1812, Algiers imposed a blockade of 19 sailboats on the port of La Goulette, situated in the northern part of Tunis.

The imposition of the blockade was a manifestation of oppression against the Dey Hammuda ibn Ali,[3] On August 10 the Admiral of Algiers, who was charged with the blockade, sent a letter from the Dey Hadj Ali in which he offered to sign a definitive peace treaty only if the Regency recognized the suzerainty of Algiers.

Although the proposal was declined, Hammuda, who desired peace between the two nations, sent a cargo of oil to the Dey for the mosques in the capital.

The two regencies suffered from terrible economic crises who were using all of their resources, all thought, The Tunisians were worried about the re imposition of the blockade or another invasion of Kef the following season.