"Hard power" refers to the use of force or coercion to influence the behavior of other nations or groups. This can include military intervention, economic sanctions, or other forms of direct pressure. Countries often rely on hard power to achieve their strategic goals, especially in situations where diplomacy may not be effective. Examples of hard power include the military actions taken by the United States in Iraq or the economic sanctions imposed on North Korea. These actions demonstrate how nations can exert control and influence through tangible means, rather than relying solely on negotiation or soft power tactics.