Yusuf al-Shihab entrusts the strengthening of Beirut's defenses to Ahmad al-Jazzar in 1773.

When the latter begins to act independently, Yusuf gets into contact with Zahir al-Umar to remove him.

Zahir suggests they enlist the Russians.

The Russian squadron under Captain Ivan Kozhukov blockades and bombards Beirut while Zahir negotiates Jazzar's withdrawal.

The latter then entered Zahir's service only to rebel against him after a few months.

In consequence, the Russians occupy Beirut for a second time to force Yusuf to pay a ransom.

The occupation lasts four months.