Tafsir of Al-Anfal 8:8

If you ask: To what is the phrase "That He might realize the truth" (li-yuḥiqq al-ḥaqq) connected?

I say: It is connected to an omitted [verb] whose estimation is: "He did what He did only for these two purposes: to realize the truth and invalidate falsehood." This refers to establishing and manifesting Islam, and invalidating and eradicating disbelief.

If you ask: Is this not a repetition?

I say: No, because the two meanings are distinct. The first [previous mention] was a distinction between the two intentions [the caravan vs. the army]. This [current mention] is an explanation of His purpose in choosing the armed group over the other for them, and granting them victory over it. It clarifies that He did not grant them victory, nor did He forsake the others, except for this purpose, which is the master of all purposes.

It is necessary to estimate the omitted [verb] as coming after [the phrase] so that it conveys the meaning of exclusivity (ikhtiṣāṣ), thus the meaning aligns with it. It has also been said: It is connected to "to cut off" (yaqṭaʿ).

"When you were imploring your Lord, and He answered you: 'I am reinforcing you with a thousand angels, following one another.'"