Why did Jefferson thing that suspending American trade overseas would help the nation avoid war?

Thomas Jefferson believed that suspending American trade overseas would pressure foreign nations, particularly Britain and France, to respect American neutrality and rights without resorting to military conflict. By halting trade, he aimed to weaken the economies of those nations, compelling them to reconsider their aggressive policies towards the U.S. Jefferson hoped that this peaceful economic strategy would unify the country and demonstrate America's resolve, ultimately helping to avoid war.