The king of Syria — This was likely the great Benhadad (see 2 Kings 6:24).

Then the king of Syria warred. —Rather, Now the king of Syria (Aram) was warring, that is, continually. The time…

Of course, he wanted to keep it secret, and pounce upon Israel here and there without notice and so win an easy victory.

Then the king of Syria warred against Israel
Proclaimed war against him; on what account, or how long it was after N…

The king of Israel regarded the warnings Elisha gave him regarding the danger from the Syrians, but he would not heed the warnings regarding the da…