Saladin's decisive victory at Hattin on July 4, 1187, paved the way for Jerusalem's liberation

On July 4, 1187, the Muslim forces of Saladin achieved a monumental victory over the Crusaders at the Battle of Hattin, a pivotal moment that reshaped the balance of power in the Levant. This triumph paved the way for the eventual recapture of Jerusalem.

The battle was precipitated by an act of aggression from Reynald of Châtillon, the Crusader ruler of Kerak. Reynald broke a truce by attacking a Muslim caravan heading to Damascus, capturing its guards and women. Despite Saladin's warnings and offers of settlement, Reynald defiantly responded, "Tell Muhammad to save you." This provocation left Saladin with no choice but to wage war.

Saladin strategically maneuvered his forces, luring the heavily burdened Crusader army, led by the King of Jerusalem, into a difficult march under the harsh July sun. The Crusaders suffered immensely from heat and thirst as they advanced towards Tiberias. Saladin positioned his army west of Tiberias, near the village of Hattin, cutting off the Crusaders' access to water.

On July 3, 1187, the Crusaders reached the hills overlooking the plains of Hattin. The following day, Saladin's forces surrounded them by night and attacked by day. The battle culminated in the near-annihilation of the Crusader army, with only the King of Jerusalem and about 150 men surviving. Saladin, upon capturing Reynald, reminded him of his atrocities before ordering his execution. This decisive victory at Hattin allowed Saladin to liberate Jerusalem on October 12, 1187, marking a significant turning point in the history of the Crusades.