מלכים ב, פרק כ״ה, פסוק כ״א

The final stage of the Babylonian conquest brings a harsh end to the nation's leadership. At Riblah in the land of Hamath, Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, executes the leading figures of the people. He takes this extreme measure because he holds these specific officials directly responsible for the actions and behavior of King Zedekiah [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

This severe punishment serves as the absolute conclusion to the military campaign. With the leaders dead, the final tragedy unfolds, and the people of Judah are carried away into exile, completely removed from their homeland.