The war between Amalric and Nur ad-Din has gradually become a contest for control of Egypt.

During three military expeditions led by Shirkuh into Egypt to prevent its falling to the Franks, a complex, three-way struggle has developed between Amalric, Shawar, and Shirkuh.

Amalric appeals both to Emperor Manuel and to Louis VII of France for help.

Manuel agrees to lend his fleet for one of Amalric's campaigns, with the provision that Amalric divide Egypt with Constantinople.

Shawar now seeks help from Shirkuh.

The Battle of al-Babein takes place on March 18, 1167, between Amalric and a Zengid army under Shirkuh for control of Egypt.

Saladin, Nur ad-Din’s nephew, serves as Shirkuh’s highest-ranking officer in the battle.

The battle is a tactical draw between the Zengid forces and King Amalric's invasion army.

Shirkuh has avoided a pitched battle with the Crusaders, who in any case have insufficient resources to conquer Egypt and are forced to retreat, but the Latin-Greek alliance is maintained.