Mehmed V, who had reigned since 1909, died in 1918 after a long-standing illness. His tenure was characterized by a series of challenges, including mounting internal instability and external pressures from World War I. The war significantly drained the empire's resources and prompted widespread discontent among the populace and military ranks. Following his passing, the leadership transferred to Mehmed VI, who was his half-brother and had previously served as a supportive figure in the sultanate. The ascension occurred at a critical moment for the Ottoman Empire, as it was on the brink of losing territories and facing potential collapse due to military failures on multiple fronts during the ongoing conflict. Mehmed VI's reign began with the immediate imperative of addressing the empire’s deterioration. As the new sultan, he struggled to balance power among competing factions within the government and military, leading to instability. This was further complicated by the Allied forces’ advances in the Middle East and the ongoing pressures from emerging nationalist movements seeking independence from Ottoman rule. The aspirations of various ethnic groups became prominent as the war continued, creating a complex political atmosphere.The first few years of Mehmed VI's reign were engulfed in controversy and governance challenges. Faced with an Ottoman Empire perceived as weakening rapidly, he attempted to maintain authority while dealing with the realities of impending change. His unwillingness or inability to enact significant reforms to address the emerging crises would set the stage for a series of momentous events that ultimately culminated in the end of the Ottoman Empire.