The Sykes-Picot Agreement was significant during World War I as it secretly divided the Middle Eastern territories of the Ottoman Empire between Britain and France. This agreement disregarded local aspirations for independence and prompted later conflicts, as it laid the groundwork for modern-day national boundaries in the region. Its revelation fueled resentment among the Arab population, who had anticipated liberation following their revolt against the Ottomans. Thus, the agreement is often seen as a catalyst for enduring tensions and geopolitical instability in the Middle East.