The assault on Karbala by the Wahhabi forces in 1802 was a significant and violent episode fueled by ideological and sectarian conflicts within Islam. The Wahhabis, who adhered to a strict interpretation of Sunni Islam, sought to purge what they considered un-Islamic practices prevalent among Shia Muslims. Their targeting of Karbala, a city of immense spiritual significance to Shia Muslims as the site of the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, showcased their intentions to dismantle Shia influence in the region. Leading the attack was the Wahhabi military commander, Abdulaziz bin Muhammad bin Saud, who orchestrated the siege with a sizeable contingent, estimated at around twelve thousand troops. The result was devastation and bloodshed, as the Wahhabis systematically looted and burned the city, resulting in the deaths of more than three thousand residents.

The attack on Karbala not only reflected the prevailing sectarian tensions at that time but also left a lasting mark on the collective memory of Shia Muslims, reinforcing their narrative of martyrdom and persecution. Following the attack, the Wahhabi actions resulted in heightened tensions across the region and a backlash against their extremist interpretation of Islam. The event is a grim reminder of the brutal sectarian divides that have persisted throughout Islamic history and set the stage for future conflicts. The sacking of Karbala underscored the vulnerability of Shia communities and highlighted the ongoing struggles between varying interpretations of Islam, significantly influencing both regional politics and religious affiliations for generations to come.