יחזקאל, פרק כ״ה, פסוק א׳

Following a heavy sequence of prophecies foretelling the destruction of the Land of Israel and Judah, a dramatic shift takes place. God turns His attention toward the neighboring nations. The primary reason for this new focus is the cruel behavior of these bordering countries. Instead of showing sympathy, these bad neighbors acted with malice, rejoicing in Israel's ruin and speaking with arrogant pride ([אברבנאל]).

The first in this series of judgments falls upon the Ammonites, specifically targeting their capital city. God holds them accountable for their malicious joy over three profound losses suffered by the Israelites. First, they gloated over the desecration of the Temple's holiness at the hands of foreigners. Second, they took pleasure in seeing the Land of Israel left completely empty and desolate. Finally, they celebrated the loss of honor experienced by the people of Judah as they were forced into exile.

Because of this cruelty, the Ammonites are condemned to a severe fate. Their punishment goes beyond a temporary raid or looting, such as what they experienced under Nebuchadnezzar. Instead, their territory will be permanently conquered by the empires of Persia and Media. These foreign powers will take full possession of the land, construct their own permanent palaces and fortresses, and completely consume all of its wealth and resources ([אברבנאל]).