שמואל ב, פרק ג׳, פסוק כ״ג

Returning from the battlefield, Joab faces a surprising new reality that unfolded during his absence. A major political agreement had been forged entirely behind his back. He and his army had just completed a highly successful raid, returning with vast amounts of loot and without suffering a single casualty. This flawless military victory filled Joab with a profound sense of power, courage, and excessive self-confidence. It was precisely this inflated sense of strength that gave him the audacity to confront the king, undermine royal decisions, and ultimately act on his own desires [מלבי״ם, מצודת דוד, אברבנאל].

Upon his arrival, Joab is informed that Abner had visited the king and was permitted to leave safely after the two secured a diplomatic agreement. The fact that Abner came and went in peace reveals that the negotiations between him and David were conducted in strict secrecy, completely hidden from Joab and the rest of the army. This quiet arrangement highlights a distinct aspect of David's leadership style. He tended not to consult with his subordinates or share his future strategies with them, choosing instead to simply issue orders [ביאור שטיינזלץ].