In Deuteronomy 32:7-9 the God Most High (El Elyon - H410) separated the nations among the Elohim (Divine Beings - H430), and gave the nation of Israel to the Lord of Creation (YHVH).

This means God (EL), the Source of reality gave other nations to other Divine Being (Eloh - H433); since Babylon they've muddled up the language to be a form of Henotheism, nationalism, and favouritism, when that isn't what was being taught.

The Creator 'chose Israel to be priests unto the nations' (Exodus 19:6), and they've rejected this position; especially when they rejected the Creator's Messiah.

Thus they've been used as an example to other nations, of what happens to those who reject what God commanded (Deuteronomy 29:24-28).

It was also prophesied that God knew they'd go backwards; as they did so when Moses had come down mount Sinai (Deuteronomy 31:26-29).