On the death in 1872 of the then Amir, Shafal bin Abdul Hadi, his nephew, Ali bin Muqbil, was recognised by the British Government as his successor. In the following year he was required by the Turkish authorities to make his submission to the Porte, a Turkish Superintendent was appointed to Dhala, a detachment of Turkish troops was quartered there, and the Amir was required to give a hostage for his good behaviour, who was to reside at Taiz. He was afterwards summoned by the Turks to Qataba and imprisoned there, but effected his escape.