Why did the pontian greek genocide occur?

The Pontian Greek genocide occurred as part of a broader campaign of ethnic cleansing during and after World War I, driven by the Ottoman Empire's desire to homogenize its population and eliminate perceived threats. The Ottoman government targeted various ethnic groups, including Pontian Greeks, due to their distinct identity, cultural ties to Greece, and perceived disloyalty amid the turmoil of the war. This led to mass killings, forced deportations, and atrocities that resulted in the deaths of hundreds of thousands of Pontian Greeks between 1914 and 1923. The genocide is a significant and painful chapter in both Greek and Ottoman history, reflecting the broader struggles and conflicts of the time.