A time will come when the historical balance of power between Israel and the mighty empires that oppressed them will be completely overturned. The great superpowers will surrender, allowing Israel to finally enjoy absolute security within its borders while exercising control over its former enemies. The nature of this new control is understood in two distinct ways. One perspective envisions a physical shattering, where the enemy's strength is forcefully broken [רש״י, רד״ק, שטיינזלץ, מלבי״ם]. Another approach suggests a firm political dominion, where Israel's leaders will govern their enemies with a strong hand, punishing any who refuse to accept their authority [אבן עזרא, מצודת דוד, מצודת ציון].
The primary targets of this future retribution are the empires of Assyria and Babylon, often associated with the land of Nimrod. These two nations are singled out because they were responsible for destroying the Land of Israel in the past; therefore, they are destined to absorb the ultimate counter-blow and face their own destruction [רד״ק]. Alternatively, some view the land of Nimrod simply as another title for Assyria itself, emphasizing its historical status as the supreme military and political power of the ancient world [שטיינזלץ].
The defeat of these empires will be absolute, though the manner of their downfall is interpreted differently. It may occur publicly at the very gates of their cities, either through Israel ruling them openly in their own centers of power, or by the enemy's borders being left wide open and defenseless [רש״י, שטיינזלץ, מצודת דוד, אבן עזרא, מלבי״ם, מצודת ציון]. Conversely, the downfall might be achieved directly through the force of arms and swords, subduing the enemy in decisive battle [רד״ק, אבן עזרא, אברבנאל].
The primary approach among commentators is that the final salvation from Assyrian aggression will be led by the Messiah or the King of Israel, who will defeat the empire and permanently seal the land against future invasions [רד״ק, שטיינזלץ]. This security might also be maintained by stationing Israeli governors within Assyrian territory. The dread of these governors will ensure that the locals only travel to the Land of Israel to display their submission, never again for war [מצודת דוד]. A unique perspective suggests that the abstract concept of peace itself will be the true agent of salvation [מלבי״ם].
Ultimately, beyond the themes of war and military conquest, the true destiny of this era is profound peace. In the end of days, Assyria and Babylon will reconcile with Israel, traveling through its borders in harmony and recognizing that Jerusalem and its king hold sovereign authority over all. This tranquil future stands in sharp contrast to the fate of Edom, which remains the ultimate enemy and is entirely excluded from this era of peace [אברבנאל].