International sanctions are measures imposed by countries or international organizations to influence a state's behavior, particularly regarding human rights violations, nuclear proliferation, or military aggression. These sanctions can include economic restrictions, trade embargoes, or travel bans on specific individuals or groups. They function as a political tool by applying pressure on the targeted state to alter its policies, thereby signaling disapproval without resorting to military intervention. However, sanctions can also lead to unintended consequences, such as humanitarian crises or strengthening of the targeted regime's resolve, complicating diplomatic relations and efforts toward conflict resolution.