In brief
Professor Dr. Salman al-Dayah's fatwa not only critiques Hamas’s actions following the October 7 attack but also underscores a growing internal discourse within Gaza regarding the ethical implications of armed resistance. His arguments, based on Islamic teachings, highlight the need for protecting civilian lives and ensuring responsible conduct during conflict.
In a remarkable turn of events, Dr. Salman al-Dayah, the most respected Islamic scholar in Gaza, has publicly rejected Hamas's attack on Israel that occurred on October 7, 2023. This incident marked the onset of a catastrophic war in the region, leading to thousands of casualties. Dr. al-Dayah, a former dean at the Islamic University of Gaza, utilized his influential voice to issue a compelling fatwa criticizing the militant group for its violation of Islamic principles concerning jihad, the term used to denote struggle in the name of Allah.Dr. al-Dayah's fatwa, spanning six pages, articulates that Hamas has strayed from key tenets of jihad, which necessitate a careful evaluation of the conditions surrounding military actions to avoid unnecessary loss of life. He stated, "If the pillars, causes, or conditions of jihad are not met, it must be avoided to prevent the destruction of lives." This viewpoint raises significant questions regarding Hamas’s strategic approach to conflict, especially in the context of garnering religious support for its actions.The repercussions of the October 7 assault have been devastating, with an estimated 1,200 people killed in Israel and over 43,400 reported fatalities in Gaza as a result of subsequent Israeli military operations. Dr. al-Dayah highlighted how the resultant humanitarian crisis contradicts fundamental Islamic teachings. He emphasized the need for safeguarding non-combatants and the vital importance of their security during conflicts. Quoting Quranic verses, he reiterated, “Human life is more precious to God than Mecca,” stressing the obligations leaders have to their people, particularly during wartime.This critique represents not only an affront to Hamas but also a significant moment in the broader discourse surrounding armed resistance and the moral responsibilities associated with it. Dr. al-Dayah, a prominent voice against extremism and a proponent for an Islamic caliphate founded on law rather than political factions, stands apart from extremists by promoting a non-party-centric interpretation of Islam.The fatwa is likely to intensify the ongoing debate within Gaza and among the Arab populace about the ramifications of such armed resistance against Israel. Sheikh Ashraf Ahmed, a student of Dr. al-Dayah, remarked on the enormity of the fatwa, calling it "the most powerful legal judgment of a historical moment". His dedication to his scholarly duties, even amidst threats to personal safety from Israeli air strikes, underscores his commitment to the principles of Islamic jurisprudence and societal well-being.Dr. al-Dayah's fatwa thus encapsulates a significant ideological conflict within Palestinian society, challenging the actions of Hamas while reinforcing the need for adherence to ethical standards in the pursuit of political goals through armed struggle.
