ירמיהו, פרק ל״ד, פסוק כ״ב

The impending destruction of Jerusalem and the surrounding cities is sealed by a firm Divine decision. God actively stirs the hearts of the enemy, prompting them to launch their assault [מצודת דוד]. This unseen directive is aimed squarely at the Babylonians, also known as the Chaldeans [רש״י, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

Their renewed military campaign becomes possible due to a sudden shift in the region's forces. Pharaoh's army, which had temporarily intervened, will retreat to its own land. This withdrawal clears the path for the Babylonians to turn back and strike Judah [רש״י]. It is God Himself who orchestrates this turning point, ensuring that the army of the Babylonian king returns to Jerusalem [מצודת דוד]. The result of this return is absolute devastation. The enemy forces will wage war against the city, capture it, and burn it to the ground, while the remaining cities of Judah will be left completely desolate and emptied of all their inhabitants [ביאור שטיינזלץ].