[2] Mithridates IV was a son of Phraates III (r. 69–57 BC), under whom he served as the ruler of the central province of Media.

[3] In 57 BC, Mithridates murdered his father with the assistance of his younger brother Orodes.

[4] However, the two brothers quickly fell out, and Orodes revolted with the support of the Suren clan.

The Roman proconsul marched with Mithridates IV to the Euphrates, but turned back to restore another ruler, Ptolemy XII Auletes of Egypt, to his throne.

[9] Despite losing his Roman support, Mithridates IV advanced into Mesopotamia and managed to conquer Babylonia.