"Humanitarian intervention" involves the intervention of foreign powers or organizations in a state to address gross violations of human rights or humanitarian crises. This concept raises complex issues in international relations, including the tension between sovereignty and the obligation to protect vulnerable populations. Humanitarian interventions can take various forms, such as military action, diplomatic pressure, or humanitarian aid. While intended to alleviate suffering, such interventions may provoke controversy regarding their effectiveness and legality, as critics argue they can sometimes exacerbate conflicts or undermine local governance.