We have already seen earlier (Nahum 2:3–4) that chariots represented military might. Nahum 2:11–12 have already referred to this army in terms of lions on the hunt. But the Lord is going to put their young lions to the sword. He will cut off their prey; no longer will Assyria feed on others. The Lord himself is going to destroy Assyria and her powerful army.
13 Behold, I am against you, declares the LORD of hosts, and I will burn your chariots in smoke, and the sword shall devour your young lions. I will cut off your prey from the earth, and the voice of your messengers shall no longer be heard.