After generations of deep division, the fractured kingdoms of Judah and Ephraim will finally reunite to face the historical enemies surrounding the Land of Israel. Moving with incredible speed and fierce determination, the reunited nation will swoop down upon its foes like a bird in flight [מצודות, רד״ק, מלבי״ם, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Alternatively, this rapid advance can be understood as the forces spreading out across the region, or even finding secure places to camp and rest [אבן עזרא]. Another perspective suggests that the sheer volume of their victories will be so vast that the Israelites will actually grow tired from continuously striking down their opponents [רד״ק].
As the forces advance westward, their movement is understood in a few different ways. The primary approach among commentators views this geographically, indicating that the Israelites will raid the borders of the Philistine territory [מלבי״ם, מצודת ציון, רד״ק]. Others see this western campaign as a profound symbol of unity, where the previously divided tribes fight shoulder to shoulder with a single heart and total cooperation [רש״י, שד״ל, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. A unique view connects this advance to the Ark of the Covenant. According to this tradition, the Israelites will carry the Ark upon their shoulders and run into Philistine territory, intending to bring holiness to that land just as the rest of Israel is sanctified [אהבת יהונתן].
Turning eastward, the united forces will plunder the people of the East, often identified as the Arameans or the descendants of Keturah [אבן עזרא, שד״ל, אהבת יהונתן]. As they confront the nations to the south and north, a clear distinction is made regarding the fates of Edom, Moab, and Ammon. The Israelites will physically strike and plunder Edom and Moab, doing with them as they please [מצודת דוד, רד״ק]. In contrast, the people of Ammon will not face destruction but will instead be subdued, accepting Israelite authority and commands. This difference in consequence stems from their historical actions. Edom and Moab actively sought to kill and curse the Israelites, warranting a severe physical response. Ammon, however, sinned only passively by failing to offer bread and water, and therefore they will face subjugation rather than death [אהבת יהונתן].
Ultimately, the mention of these specific ancient nations does not necessarily point to literal future wars against these exact groups. Rather, these traditional, neighboring enemies are used as prime examples. They represent all the nations that will eventually surrender to Israelite rule, even though the original ancient peoples have long since mixed with others and disappeared from the world stage [רד״ק, שד״ל].