provocation

noun
  1. The act of provoking or inciting someone to react, often in anger or annoyance. noun
    The constant noise from the construction site was a provocation to the nearby residents.
    His rude comments were seen as a provocation, causing an argument to erupt.
  2. Something that incites, instigates, angers, or irritates. noun
    The provocative article served as a provocation for a heated debate.
    The decision to increase taxes acted as a provocation for public protests.