Is it permissible to force a Muslim wife who does not wear the hijab to do so, knowing that the husband is aware that she wants to wear it gradually and does not wish to shock her parents, and he is not inclined to compel her?

The hijab is an obligation enjoined by Allah upon believing women as a form of protection for them. There is no obedience to a creature in disobedience to Allah. The wife must adhere to it, understanding that it does not contradict her dutifulness to her parents. The husband should encourage her to do so with a kind and gentle approach, explaining to her the great reward in obeying her Lord, and the texts of warning mentioned regarding immodest display (tabarruj) and unveiling.