Some Remarks on the Foreign Policy of Psammetichus II in the Levant (595–589 B.C.)

Abstract

AbstractSince it is commonly held that Psammetichus II abstained from aggressive activity against Babylonia, I want to reconsider his policy (595-589 B.C.) toward the Levant and the Babylonian Empire. No new data exists, leaving us only the (re)interpretation of the facts. In this article I shall review: 1. The Babylonian presence and activity in the Levant; 2. The anti-Babylonian conference in the fourth year of Zedekiah, King of Judah (most probably 593 B.C.); 3. Alleged Judean involvement in Psammetichus II's campaign against Kush; 4. Psammetichus II's campaign to Kush in his third year of reign (593 B.C.); 5. The Effect of the Egyptian Campaign to Kush on the Levant; 6. The campaign of Psammetichus to the land of Kharu in his fourth regnal year.