Knossos wanted to strengthen their hegemony of Crete, but received opposition from the Lyttians. In response Knossos employed foreign mercenaries under the former Phocian leader Phalaikos.
Knossos sought to enhance their dominance over Crete, but faced resistance from the Lyttians. In response, Knossos enlisted foreign mercenaries under the former Phocian leader Phalaikos.