That is because their messengers went to them with clear proofs, but they disbelieved. Consequently, God punished them. He is Mighty, strict in enforcing retribution.
ذٰلِكَ بِأَنَّهُم كانَت تَأتيهِم رُسُلُهُم بِالبَيِّنٰتِ فَكَفَروا فَأَخَذَهُمُ اللَّهُ إِنَّهُ قَوِىٌّ شَديدُ العِقابِ
zaalika bi annahum kaanat taateehim Rusuluhum bilbaiyinaati fakafaroo fa akhazahumul laah; innahoo qawiyyun shadeedul ‘iqaab