The Siege of Kandahar (1648–1649) was a conflict between the Mughal Empire, under the command of Shah Jahan's son Prince Aurangzeb, and the Safavid Empire, commanded by Abbas II. It was the first major attempt by the Mughals to retake the strategic city of Kandahar after it had been captured by the Safavids in 1638.
The Mughal army, although large and well-equipped, faced significant logistical challenges and stubborn resistance from the Safavid garrison. The Safavid forces, bolstered by the city's fortifications, were able to withstand the prolonged siege.
After a siege lasting several months, marked by heavy casualties on both sides, the Mughals were ultimately unsuccessful in their attempt to recapture Kandahar. Aurangzeb's forces were forced to withdraw due to dwindling supplies, harsh weather conditions, and the continued strength of the Safavid defenses.
The failure of the siege represented a significant setback for Mughal ambitions in the region and further strained relations between the Mughal and Safavid empires. Kandahar remained under Safavid control for several more years, becoming a contested city and a key point of contention between the two powers. The failure of this siege contributed to further Mughal attempts to regain Kandahar in subsequent years.