שופטים, פרק ב׳, פסוק ג׳

God's decision to leave the foreign nations in the land is a direct response to the Israelites' own actions. Because the people held back from driving out these nations, God establishes a punishment that strikes on two distinct fronts: the national and the spiritual [מלבי״ם].

The timing and nature of God's declaration are viewed in different ways. Some interpret it as a decree made in the present moment out of anger [רש״י]. In this light, it serves as a reciprocal punishment: just as the Israelites originally chose not to expel the foreign nations, from now on they will be completely unable to do so, even if they change their minds [מצודת דוד]. Alternatively, this declaration serves as a reminder of a warning God had already given them in the past [ביאור שטיינזלץ].

On the national level, the presence of these foreign nations will create severe physical and political threats. One approach understands that these nations will become bitter enemies, waiting nearby to ambush the Israelites, surrounding them with raiding bands to plunder and loot [רש״י, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This constant harassment is likened to painful thorns piercing the sides of the body [רד״ק]. Another perspective suggests that the foreign nations will act as hunters, setting traps to capture the very souls of the Israelites [מצודת ציון, רד״ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

The second front of the punishment is deeply spiritual. Mingling with these local nations and straying after their idols will create a dangerous stumbling block. Ultimately, this spiritual failure will lead to the Israelites being handed over to their enemies [מצודת דוד]. By allowing these foreign nations to remain in the land, a cycle of ongoing hatred is guaranteed, which will cause the Israelites to lose their grace and favor in the eyes of God [ביאור שטיינזלץ].