Economic sanctions function as a tool of foreign policy that governments use to influence a target country’s behavior without resorting to military action. Sanctions may include trade restrictions, asset freezes, or financial penalties aimed at compelling a country to conform to international laws or norms, such as human rights standards. These measures can effectively pressure a nation to alter its policies but may also have unintended consequences, impacting civilians and potentially escalating tensions. The efficacy of sanctions often depends on international cooperation and the target nation's resilience.