- Rugged terrain with steep cliffs and narrow ravines made it challenging for troops to advance inland and establish a foothold.
Strong Turkish Defense:
- The Turkish forces were well-prepared and aware of the imminent attack, allowing them to fortify the coastline effectively.
- The Ottoman troops under the command of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk (later known as Ataturk) utilized the elevated positions to their advantage.
Poor Planning and Execution:
- Insufficient reconnaissance and inadequate knowledge of the terrain led to British miscalculations about the strength of the Turkish defenses and the complexity of the landing.
Timing and Surprise Factor:
- The Allies decided to postpone the invasion after an initial landing attempt in February 1915, which gave the Turks time to strengthen their defenses even more.
Lack of Coordination:
- The Allied forces' naval assault and land forces' attacks were not well-coordinated, leading to confusion and delay.
Amphibious Landing Challenges:
- The initial Anzac landing at dawn was met with heavy fire from the Turkish troops located higher on the ridge, making disembarkation and establishing a foothold extremely hazardous.
Weather Conditions:
- Unfavorable weather conditions, including rough seas and storms, hampered communication and disrupted plans for landings on various beaches.