Israel, now in a state of chaos, needed a new king. But a civil split was between them and as Judah welcomed David’s return and made him king in Hebron, Abner made Saul’s son Ish-Bosheth king over the remaining tribes of Israel. In an attempt to take Judah, he also made war against Joab, the nephew of David and commander of his army. But he was outmatched. And though he killed one of Joab’s brothers, Joab still gave his army mercy when he called off the battle.