Pompey's Iberian campaign

Pompey's campaign in Iberia and Colchis (Georgian: პომპეუსის ლაშქრობა საქართველოში) took place in 65 BC and was a consequence of the Mithridatic Wars. Rome sought to expand its borders and establish itself as a Hegemon of the Middle East. After mostly subjugating the Kingdom of Pontus and the Kingdom of Armenia Romans turned to the Iberian Kingdom, whose king was an ally of Pontus.

The Roman General Lucullus lead the campaigns from 74 BC to 66 BC, when the Roman Senate determined that he was going to be succeeded by Pompey. That same year Pompey effectively defeated the Armenians and Pontians, with their king Mithridates escaping to Colchis. After that the attention of Romans became increasingly focused on Iberia and Albania.

Pompey made preparations for the conquest of both the Iberian and Albanian kingdoms. Fearing the imminent invasion Artag turned to diplomacy and promised the Roman envoys unconditional friendship. Pompey accepted these terms but because he was alerted that the Iberians were secretly planning an attack, in the spring of 65 BC he immediately marched his forces to Iberia. , unaware of this, was surprised by the Romans and learned this too late to react adequately.

Pompey's forces besieged the fortress of Armazi. Artag panicked, fled the castle and took shelter on the left bank of Mtkvari river. He also burned the bridge over the river to ensure that the Romans wouldn't capture him. Armazi fell and Pompey subjugated the right bank. Artag requested a truce, while promising the Romans that he would restore the bridge and supply them with food. Artag stayed true to his words but upon restoring the bridge, Pompey crossed it with his forces in attempt to seize the King.

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