“And Thus Were the Nephites in Those Dangerous Circumstances in the Ending of the Twenty and Sixth Year of the Reign of the Judges Over the People of Nephi”

The Nephites are caught between two strong Lamanite presences. The Lamanites on the east can stay in their fortified cities, sally out for short attacks that occupy Teancum’s army, make it impossible for him to send soldiers to Moroni’s aid, and reduce the Nephites’ fighting force with each engagement. Ammoron clearly understands that, by dividing the Nephite forces, he is thereby weakening their ability to repel and drive back his army.