Pahoran already has some men with him in Gideon. He does not ask for all of Moroni’s troops, for he understands that they need to be ready to defend the eastern front. He does need both experienced fighters and a brilliant general, and there was none better than Moroni. Pahoran is certain that with the addition of Moroni and a small force that they can retake Zarahemla. Once Zarahemla is retaken, then greater provisions are available, and many men will be freed from the internal conflict to be able to support the external conflicts.