[resort] to violence

to use physical force or aggressive actions as a means of achieving a goal or resolving a dispute

It's important to find peaceful solutions to disputes rather than resort to violence.
The protest turned violent when some participants resorted to violence against law enforcement.
The peace talks broke down, and both sides began to resort to violence once again.
Instead of resorting to violence, the community organized a mediation program for resolving disputes.
In self-defense, one may resort to violence as a means of protection against physical harm.