The Battle of Siffin took place in 657 CE between the forces of Ali ibn Abi Talib, the fourth caliph of Islam, and Muawiya ibn Abi Sufyan, the governor of Syria. This conflict arose from a power struggle following the assassination of Uthman, the third caliph. The battle was marked by fierce fighting and lasted several months, ultimately leading to a stalemate. The battle concluded with the controversial arbitration process, where both sides agreed to settle their differences through negotiation rather than continued warfare. This decision deepened the divide within the early Muslim community, contributing to the emergence of the Sunni and Shia sects.