The capture of Jaffa occurred during Napoleon Bonaparte's Egyptian campaign, a military expedition aimed at establishing French control and undermining British influence in the region. After landing in Alexandria, Napoleon advanced towards Cairo and sought to gain further territory along the Mediterranean coast. By March, he had reached Jaffa, a strategic port city with significant historical and commercial importance. Following intense fighting, French forces captured the city, encountering strong resistance from the local garrison.

In the aftermath of the capture, Napoleon faced challenges from both his adversaries and his own troops. Feeling threatened by the potential for rebellion and unrest, he decided to execute many of the captured Albanian soldiers, sending a chilling message about the consequences of resistance. The decision to kill over 2,000 prisoners underscored the brutal nature of military campaigns at the time as well as the complexities of the geopolitical conflicts in the region.

This episode is often viewed as a reflection of Napoleon's harsh leadership style and tactical calculations, reinforcing his reputation for ruthlessness. The executions sparked outrage and contributed to a dark narrative surrounding his military ambitions, highlighting the human cost of his campaigns in pursuit of glory and territorial expansion.