Dhurma Massacre (1818)

The Dhurma Massacre is a massacre perpetrated by the Ottomans in the Siege of Dhurma, during the Expedition to Najd (1817-1818).

Dhurma Massacre
Part of Nejd Expedition
Location	Dhurma, Saudi Arabia
Date	January 1818
Target	Saudi Civilians, Saudi Soldiers
Attack type	Fort Raid Civilian Attack
Deaths	800+ Killed 3,000 Captured
Victims	First Saudi State
Perpetrators	Ottoman Empire

Background

In January 1818, Ibrahim led his forces to Dhurma fortress, a stronghold abundantly equipped with both defenders and provisions.

Upon arrival, Ibrahim meticulously surveyed the fort before initiating a siege from its eastern flank. Despite Ottoman bombardments and assaults on the walls, a fierce battle ensued, concluding with the Ottomans being thwarted. In an endeavor to negotiate with the garrison, Ibrahim faced unsuccessful attempts.

The Ottoman forces relentlessly bombarded the fortress walls, reportedly unleashing 5,300 shots upon the stronghold. Despite a renewed attack, they faced a decisive repulsion, sustaining a loss of 600 men. Undeterred, the garrison initiated reconstruction efforts on the damaged sections of the walls. Ibrahim subsequently besieged the fort from the south, under the leadership of Mut'ab bin 'Aafisan. After bombarding and launching another assault, the Ottomans successfully seized control of the fortress, infiltrating it from all directions.

Massacre

The Ottomans initiated a ruthless campaign, targeting residents in both shops and houses. Street battles persisted, resulting in numerous Ottoman casualties. In a deceitful maneuver, surrendered individuals had their weapons confiscated only to be subsequently killed by the Ottomans. The fortress endured widespread pillaging, encompassing money, weapons, cattle, clothing, and personal belongings, rendering it devoid of inhabitants. Ibrahim seized control and captured 3,000 women and children, dispatching them to Diriyah.

The massacre resulted in the death of 800 Saudi soldiers, In which only 400 out of 1200, had survived.

References