On this day: Battle of Yarmouk ended 1,390 years ago, reshaping the Middle East
On August 20, 636, the six-day Battle of Yarmouk River concluded with an Arab victory over Byzantine forces, opening the way for the spread of Islam across North Africa and the Middle East.
On August 20, 636 — 1,390 years ago — one of the most consequential battles of early Islamic history came to an end: the Battle of Yarmouk River. The battle lasted six days, beginning on August 15, and took place in an area that today borders Syria, Jordan and Israel.
The battle
The clash pitted an Arab army against the forces of the Byzantine Empire. The Arab army was commanded by Khalid ibn al-Walid, regarded as one of the most brilliant military commanders of his era. Facing him were forces sent by Byzantine Emperor Heraclius.
Over six days of fighting, the Arab army achieved a decisive victory, crushing the Byzantine forces. The defeat marked a turning point for Byzantine influence in the region.
Historical consequences
After the defeat at Yarmouk, the Byzantine Empire lost the ability to effectively resist the Arab advance. This opened the way for the further spread of Islam — first across territories of the Middle East, and later into North Africa as well. Historians regard the battle as one of the most decisive events shaping the region's — and the world's — development for centuries to come, as it fundamentally altered the balance of power between Christian Byzantium and the emerging Islamic state.
