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The question

What is terrorism from the Muslim and Western perspectives, and how do we respond to them when there is a disagreement?

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Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 20261 min readAlso available in العربية
The answer

"Terrorism" (Al-Irhab) linguistically means intimidation, and it can be blameworthy or praiseworthy. Blameworthy terrorism is the intimidation of those who do not deserve to be intimidated, whether Muslims or non-Muslims whose lives are sacrosanct. Islam has forbidden frightening a Muslim, even in jest. As for praiseworthy terrorism, it is the intimidation of the enemy in preparation for repelling their aggression, and it is an obligation upon Muslims. Allah Almighty says: (And prepare against them whatever you are able of power and of steeds of war by which you may terrify the enemy of Allah and your enemy). Colonial powers labeled Islam with the term "terrorism" to tarnish its image, while they themselves practice terrorism. The Islamic Fiqh Council defined terrorism as "aggression practiced by individuals, groups, or states, transgressing against humanity," emphasizing that terrorism is a global phenomenon that cannot be attributed to a specific religion.

Summary from Ftawy's records · added here

Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.

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Ftawy
Original fatwa ID
29012
Added here
. This is when the answer was added to El Fatwa, not the fatwa's date.
Text
Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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Read the full answer on Ftawy