יחזקאל, פרק ל׳, פסוק ה׳

As an ancient and central kingdom in Africa, Egypt served as a source of power and culture for its entire surrounding region. Because of this vast influence, the collapse of the Egyptian empire is destined to send shockwaves throughout the area, bringing down all neighboring nations and allies in its wake [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. A specific series of nations will share in this downfall, namely Cush, Put, and Lud. This specific nation of Lud is not the familiar state located in Asia Minor, but rather a different nation situated close to Egypt. Alongside them is Chub, which is identified as Libya [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

The impending destruction also extends to a broader collective of people. The primary approach among commentators understands this group as a diverse mixture of different nations and idolaters who had blended together and settled within the region [מצודת דוד, מצודת ציון, רד"ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Conversely, another perspective suggests they were a group of guarantors, referring to the various nations that provided supporting forces specifically designated to assist Egypt [רש"י].

Furthermore, the ruin will consume the residents of nearby lands who entered into formal treaties to aid the empire. Even though these people were not Egyptian and did not belong to their families, the simple fact that they allied themselves with Egypt dictates that they will be punished and struck down [רש"י, רד"ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Ultimately, all of these various nations, mixed populations, and allies will fall by the sword together with Egypt [מצודת דוד].