The Battle of Siffin was a significant conflict that took place in 657 CE during the early Islamic period. It was fought between the forces of Ali ibn Abi Talib, the fourth caliph, and those loyal to Muawiya, the governor of Syria. The battle arose from a dispute over the rightful leadership of the Muslim community following the assassination of Uthman, the third caliph. The battle ended in a stalemate, leading to arbitration to resolve the conflict. However, this arbitration further deepened divisions within the Muslim community, contributing to the eventual split between Sunni and Shia Islam. The events at Siffin had lasting implications for Islamic history and politics.