תהלים, פרק פ״ג, פסוק ט׳

A vast coalition of enemies rises against the Israelites, expanding to include unexpected forces that bolster the original architects of the conflict. Ammon and Moab, the descendants of Lot, are the primary instigators of this war [רד״ק, מצודת דוד, שטיינזלץ, מאירי]. To their aid comes Assyria, joining the alliance to serve as their military arm, providing crucial strength and combat support [רש״י, מצודת ציון, שטיינזלץ, מאירי].

The inclusion of Assyria in this alliance is particularly striking for several reasons. Geographically, Assyria was located much further from the Land of Israel than the other participating nations. Despite the vast distance, they made a deliberate effort to travel and join the military campaign [רד״ק, שטיינזלץ, מאירי].

Beyond geography, their participation marks a profound moral decline. In early history, Assyria actively distanced itself from corrupt society, famously withdrawing from the wicked plans of Nimrod and the generation of the Tower of Babel. Yet, the nation that once carefully avoided evil has now regressed, choosing to align with the wicked to harm the Israelites and destroy the Temple [רש״י, מאירי].

Furthermore, Assyria's involvement shows a stubborn refusal to learn from history. They had already witnessed the overwhelming power of God firsthand during the devastating defeat of Sennacherib's army. Instead of taking this lesson to heart, the Assyrians ignored their past downfall, clung to their wickedness, and eagerly returned to assist the enemies of Israel [רד״ק בשם אביו, מצודת דוד, מאירי].

Ultimately, Assyria's partnership with Ammon and Moab goes beyond simple military strategy. Their alliance represents a direct assault on the honor of God. This deep-seated hostility is driven by a desire to desecrate the divine, expressed through the destruction of Torah scrolls and a relentless effort to completely erase the identity of the Israelite nation throughout history [אלשיך, מאירי].