It occurred between a force from the Muslim community of Medina led by Muhammad , and a force led by Abu Sufyan from Mecca , the town from which many of the Muslims had previously emigrated ( hijra ) . It occurred between a force from the Muslim community of Medina led by the Islamic prophet Muhammad , and a force led by Abu Sufyan ibn Harb from Mecca , the town from which many of the Muslims had previously emigrated .