Person

Malik al-Ashtar

مالك الأشتر
d. 657 CE Banu Nakha

Malik al-Ashtar was a key military commander for Ali and led Kufan forces during the first fitna.

Significance

Commander loyal to Ali and leader of Kufan forces

Reputation in tradition

praised

Stated motivation

Support Ali and maintain order
Sources: Wikipedia and classical Islamic biographical literature compiled by automated researchers. Every page is being continuously refined — if something looks off, please check back in a few days.