Nik Ahmad Amirul Aiman

This research explores the legal foundations and practical application of sanctions as instruments of foreign policy in the contemporary international order. As traditional methods of conflict resolution and diplomatic pressure continue to evolve, sanctions have emerged as a preferred tool for states and international bodies to influence the behavior of target nations without resorting to military force. This study critically examines the legal mechanism that authorizes the use of sanctions under international law, with a particular focus on the framework established by the United Nations Charter and relevant domestic legislation. It also investigates the shift from comprehensive sanctions targeted or “smart” sanctions, which aim to minimize humanitarian impacts while maintaining political pressure. Using the Iran-West conflict as a case study, the paper evaluates the effectiveness, legality, and ethical implications of sanctions regimes, drawing comparisons with approaches in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Malaysia. Through doctrinal and comparative legal analysis, supported by qualitative data from secondary sources, this seeks to provide a clearer understanding of how sanctions operate as a legal tool of power and influence in foreign policy. The findings highlight the complexities, challenges, and future directions of sanctions use with the framework of international law and global governance.