He again stormed into Sirmium and laid siege to his uncle in Zimony in spring 1165. Emperor Manuel decided to make a counterattack, but a rebellion by his cousin Andronikos Komnenos prevented him from marching to the Danube. Nevertheless, Manuel I sent envoys to the monarchs who had earlier supported Stephen III, persuading them to remain neutral in the conflict.
In spring 1165, he re-entered Sirmium and besieged his uncle in Zimony. Emperor Manuel intended to counterattack but was prevented by a rebellion from Andronikos Komnenos. Despite this, Manuel I sent envoys to monarchs who had previously supported Stephen III, urging them to remain neutral during the conflict.