Syrian campaigns of John Tzimiskes

John Tzimiskes, the Byzantine emperor, launched significant campaigns in Mesopotamia and the Levant during the 970s to expand Byzantine influence and challenge Arab dominance. His efforts began after the collapse of the Hamdanid dynasty, which had ruled much of the region. Between 972 and 975, Tzimiskes conducted two major campaigns in Mesopotamia and Syria.

In the first campaign (972–973), he advanced through Mesopotamia, capturing key cities including Nisibis, Amida, Martyropolis, and Jazira. He also received tribute from local rulers but faced Arab resistance led by Taghlib, which delayed his march to Mosul.

In the second campaign (975), Tzimiskes focused on the Levant, where he captured Emesa, Heliopolis, Damascus, Galilee, and other territories. He established Byzantine governance in these regions, but faced challenges from Fatimid forces, who controlled cities like Tripoli and Sidon. Tzimiskes avoided advancing further into Palestine due to the strategic importance of coastal cities, which he partly subdued.

Despite his successes, Tzimiskes did not capture Baghdad or Tripoli, as Fatimid threats limited his objectives. His campaigns significantly expanded Byzantine territory in Mesopotamia and Syria but left some areas under Arab control.