Egypt: Broken Reed

Because you have been a staff of reed to the house of Israel - when they grasped you with the hand, you broke.
It is a picture of a walking stick that snaps and cuts the hand leaning on it. Israel leaned on Egypt for protection against Babylon, and Egypt was no help at all.
The sources are brief on these verses, and the point is plain rather than deep: Egypt is not someone to be trusted. It is a warning about alliances more than a theological puzzle.
Scripture links:
- Ezekiel 29:6-7 - when they grasped you, you broke and tore all their shoulders.
The powers people lean on for safety tend to give way at the moment of weight.