What does the cryptic crossword clue "Low card played in period of conflict (4,3)" mean?

The definition is "conflict". The wordplay uses an anagram. anagram of LOW + CARD = COLDWAR; definition: "conflict" The answer is COLDWAR.

Low card played in period of conflict (4,3)

Daily Mail Cryptic #17176 | 10 Across | 2023-09-01 flower