But by this time the choices offered by the rebels amounted to only the resignation or abdication of Uthman and selection of another caliph. As turmoil broke out, Ali left. He seems to have broken with Uthman.
The rebels presented limited options—either Uthman's resignation or abdication and the selection of a new caliph. As conflict intensified, Ali decided to depart. This indicates a rift with Uthman.