Stretch out his hand against: or “use his power against,” or “extend his domination over.”

The countries: the reference here may be to Edom, Moab, and Ammon mentioned in the previous verse (Good News Translation), or possibly to “other countries” in addition to them (Bible en français courant and New English Bible/Revised English Bible). New International Version has “many countries.” This interpretation seems more likely than that of Good News Translation. But if the interpretation of Good News Translation is followed, it will probably not be necessary to repeat the proper names. It is quite likely that a more definite reference such as “those countries” will be appropriate.

The land of Egypt: this is another clearly-stated geographical reference to Egypt, confirming the translation of “king of the south” as “king of Egypt” (see the discussion under verse 5).

Shall not escape: or “will also be captured.”

Quoted with permission from Péter-Contesse, René & Ellington, John. A Handbook on Daniel. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1994. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .