Is it permissible to seek a divorce from a husband who has illicit relationships with women?

It is not permissible for a woman to seek khul' (divorce at the wife's instance, usually with compensation to the husband) or divorce except for a legitimate reason, due to the hadith: "Any woman who asks her husband for divorce without a sound reason, the scent of Paradise will be forbidden to her," and his (peace be upon him) saying: "Indeed, the women who seek khul' are the hypocrites." This refers to seeking it without a permissible reason.

If the husband is involved in an illicit relationship, this is a reason that permits the wife to seek divorce or khul', for the sake of her religion and to preserve herself.

Among the reasons that justify seeking khul' are: The wife's dislike of her husband's character, such as his harshness, anger, and criticism. Dislike of his physical appearance, such as a defect or ugliness. His lack of religiosity, such as abandoning prayer or engaging in forbidden acts. His withholding her rights, such as maintenance or clothing, while he is able to provide them. His not giving her due rights regarding usual conjugal relations in a way that safeguards her chastity.