بِسْمِ ٱللَّٰهِ ٱلرَّحْمَٰنِ ٱلرَّحِيمِ

The first naval expedition in Islamic history was done by the governor of Syria, Mu’awiyah ibn Abi Sufyan رَضِيَ اللهُ عَنْهُ, during the caliphate of ‘Uthman ibn Affan رَضِيَ اللهُ عَنْهُ. This expedition was known as the Battle of the Masts and occurred around 28 AH (648 CE) and targeted the island of Cyprus.

Narrated Khalid bin Madan:

That ‘Umair bin Al-Aswad Al-Anasi told him that he went to ‘Ubada bin As-Samit while he was staying in his house at the sea-shore of Hims with (his wife) Um Haram. ‘Umair said. Um Haram informed us that she heard the Prophet (ﷺ) saying, “Paradise is granted to the first batch of my followers who will undertake a naval expedition.” Um Haram added, I said, ‘O Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ)! Will I be amongst them?’ He replied, ‘You are amongst them.’ The Prophet (ﷺ) then said, ‘The first army amongst’ my followers who will invade Caesar’s City will be forgiven their sins.’ I asked, ‘Will I be one of them, O Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ)?’ He replied in the negative.”

[Sahih al-Bukhari 2924]

Additionally, the first siege of Constantinople done by the Muslims was always done by Amir Mu’awiyah رَضِيَ اللهُ عَنْهُ. However, the city remained under Byzantine rule until it was conquered by Ottoman sultan, Mehmet the Conqueror, may Allah have mercy on him.

May Allah سبحانه و تعالى‎ be pleased with Amir Mu’awiyah and his army!

جَزَاكَ اللهُ خَيْرًا