In the summer of 1839, Mehmet Ali’s pursuit of autonomy brought him into direct conflict with the Ottoman Empire. Although Egyptian forces achieved notable successes, European powers—particularly Britain—intervened diplomatically, compelling Mehmet Ali to accept a new agreement. Under its terms, he was forced to surrender territories, including Crete.

This shift was seen by the Cretans as an opportunity to reignite their revolutionary efforts. Hopes were high that the European powers might now support such an initiative.

By late 1840, Cretan Christians living in exile in Athens and Nafplio formed a committee known as Kriton Politia (Cretan State). Composed of individuals with both political and military backgrounds, the committee was led by Nikolaos Renieris, who had previously served as the Governor’s Representative in Crete during the final phase of the 1821 Revolution. A second committee was established in Syros, and both groups began fundraising campaigns to secure weapons and supplies for the planned uprising.