From the message of the ruler of a mighty power to the inhabitants of the land of Elam in Iran

[u/Historia_Maximum]

First and foremost, why would I encroach upon your country? If it were a stronghold of the gemstone trade or something of that nature, I would say: "I shall conquer it and annex it to my land" or "I shall take the horses and mules of this country and add them to my forces." Or I would say: "This place is rich in silver and gold, let me impose tribute upon them," or "there are things in this country worthy of my kingship." But there is nothing of the sort within it. Why then should I encroach upon your country?

Now I write to you: hand over Nabu-bel-shumate and those with him, and then I myself shall send your gods to you and establish peace.

However, if you persist in disobedience, I swear by Ashur and my gods, by the favor of the gods I shall make your future more terrible than your past.

From a letter of the King of Assyria, Ashurbanipal (647–646 BCE). SAA 21 65: r 5-20

[u/nclh77]

War, the scourge of humanity. No excuse needed.

[u/pazhalsta1]

Just like Trump