In brief
In a groundbreaking fatwa, Professor Dr. Salman al-Dayah has denounced Hamas's 7 October attack on Israel, arguing it violates Islamic principles governing armed struggle and places civilians at risk. This significant critique emphasizes the need for morality in warfare, laying bare the internal divisions within Palestinian society regarding the use of violence.
In a rare and powerful fatwa, Professor Dr. Salman al-Dayah, a distinguished Islamic scholar in Gaza, has condemned Hamas's deadly attack on Israel that occurred on 7 October 2023. This assault initiated a catastrophic conflict in which thousands have died, particularly in Gaza, where Hamas is based. Dr. Dayah, a former dean at the Hamas-affiliated Islamic University of Gaza and a prominent voice among the predominantly Sunni Muslim population, argues that the attack contravened fundamental Islamic principles regarding jihad, a term that signifies both personal and military struggle.Within his extensive six-page fatwa, Dr. Dayah addresses the responsibilities tied to the concept of jihad, highlighting that an attack must be refrained from when it endangers the lives of innocents. He states, "The pillars of jihad must be met, and if these conditions are lacking, actions that cause excessive civilian suffering and unnecessary destruction must be avoided." This underscores his belief that Hamas's actions resulted in a humanitarian disaster, with over 43,400 fatalities reported in Gaza post-attack, according to local health authorities.Hamas's image may be significantly tarnished by the fatwa, especially as the group typically uses religious rationale to justify its military actions to rally support in the wider Arab and Muslim communities. Through Quranic references, Dr. Dayah contends that leaders must ensure the protection of non-combatants and provide essential resources, voicing that, "Human life is more precious to God than Mecca."Dr. Dayah's critique is particularly formidable given his substantial influence across Gaza; he positions himself as a vocal critic of Islamist factions, including Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad. Holding moderate Salafist beliefs, he advocates for an Islamic governance model founded on Islamic law rather than party politics, which he deems divisive.The impact of this fatwa extends beyond theological discourse; it echoes the growing moral and legal debates within Gaza and the broader Arab world about the ramifications of Hamas's conduct. Reports from followers highlight Dr. Dayah's courage, as he remains steadfast in his commitment to his principles even amid the threats surrounding him. As Sheikh Ashraf Ahmed, one of Dr. Dayah's pupils, remarked, "This legal ruling is profound and represents a pivotal moment in our discourse around armed resistance." The fatwa adds to the complex narrative of the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict, potentially fuelling further discussions on the ethics of warfare within Palestinian politics.
