2) The main points of relief support These points were the...

2.The main points of relief support These points were the very same routes that were used by the troops, and the rear wound usually not move in one position behind the main ranks of the army[^25]; like in the battles of Badr and Tabuk. The movement from these points by the rear of the army would not take place more than once, because this would cause a split and a cessation of the relief support operations.

For the soldiers, there was more than one central point for supplies but despite this, they would always use the closest point like Madina in the Battle of Hudaybiyya and from there (the route) to Fadak would be used[^26]. Of course the original and primary points of relief supply were Makkah and Madina which had links with the outside and were considered the main centers of relief support[^27].

Between Makkah and outside it there were two roads to the west (coastal) and east (desert), and between Madina and outside it there was an important road that led towards the land of Shām (Syria) and there was continuous relief support conducted using different means between these two routes. Whenever these central points were cut off for any reason, the army forces would face hardships in terms of lack of sufficient relief supplies and provisions.

Similarly, in the beginning the Muslim army tried to cut off the supply routes of the Quraysh and they would be so harsh on them that at times they would be pushed to the brink of destruction[^28]. When the point of supply from Madina was partially cut off, the supreme commander would reopen them by gaining victory of the tribes that were responsible for closing the route[^29].

3.Places of rest for the army After marching a specified distance, the Muslim army would stop for a brief period in a suitable location[^30]. At this time, the troops would carry out repairs and maintenance on their battle equipment, and would eat and drink. Then they would refill their vessels with water and continue their march[^31]. The army would usually stop at a place where there was a well and plentiful grass for grazing[^32].

The places of rest for the army would be selected according to the length of their journey, the army’s size and the suitability of the area for remaining hidden and concealed[^33]. The time of these rest-stops would be in accordance to the mission given to the forces, the weather or time of day (and night)[^34].

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