What type of action does "isolate" typically involve during a military operation?

"Isolate" in a military context primarily refers to the strategy of cutting off an enemy's ability to receive supplies, reinforcements, or any form of support. This action is crucial in weakening the enemy's operational capabilities, making it more difficult for them to sustain their forces in a conflict. By preventing resupply, forces can starve the enemy of the resources necessary to conduct operations, thereby increasing the effectiveness of subsequent military actions against them.

In contrast, the other options involve different aspects of military engagement. Engaging in contact with enemy forces, blocking retreats, and negotiating peace terms all play roles in military strategy but do not specifically encapsulate the meaning of "isolate" as effectively as preventing resupply does. The focus on cutting off resources highlights why isolating enemy forces is deemed a vital tactic for achieving success in military operations.