Charles Ellicott Commentary Daniel 11:23

"And after the league made with him he shall work deceitfully; for he shall come up, and shall become strong, with a small people." — Daniel 11:23 (ASV)

He shall work. —Apparently this verse explains more fully the means by which the king succeeds in maintaining his influence. He has already destroyed those who are at peace with him. From the time that he first becomes their confederate, he works deceitfully, coming up with hostile intent, accompanied only by a few people, and in this way throwing off their guard those whom he would destroy.