jun 1, 1157 - Battle of Lake Huleh

Description:

In the Battle of Lake Huleh in June 1157, King Baldwin III of Jerusalem and his Crusader army were decisively defeated by Nur ad-Din Zangi, the Emir of Aleppo and Damascus. The battle took place in the Hula Valley, part of the Kingdom of Jerusalem, now in northeast Israel.

Background:
By 1154, Nur ad-Din had unified Syria, presenting a unified threat to the Crusader states. In February 1157, Baldwin III seized flocks from Damascene pastures in Banias, violating a truce and provoking Nur ad-Din, who responded with raids on Frankish lands.

Battle:
Nur ad-Din besieged Banias, defended by Knights Hospitaller. Baldwin III marched to relieve the siege but was ambushed near Lake Huleh. The Crusaders, caught off-guard with inadequate watch, suffered a heavy defeat. Baldwin and some survivors fled to Safad Castle, while notable figures like Hugh of Ibelin and Bertrand of Blancfort were captured. Nur ad-Din showcased the prisoners and severed heads of Crusaders in Damascus, celebrating his victory.

Aftermath:
Despite the severe defeat, the battle had limited long-term consequences for the Crusaders. Banias remained under Latin control until 1164. Nur ad-Din's subsequent illness prevented immediate follow-up actions. Baldwin took advantage of this, launching a northern Syria campaign and recapturing Harim Castle, although a later defeat at Harim in 1164 loomed. The Battle of Butaiha followed in 1158.

Added to timeline:

Date: