What is the ruling on a husband who travels without his wife's knowledge, leaving her "in limbo" – neither divorced nor married – and is this permissible for him, especially when there are ongoing legal disputes between them?

The existence of legal disputes between spouses is not a legitimate impediment to the husband's travel, as he can attend court or appoint a representative. It is not permissible for a husband to harm his wife or leave her in suspense, whether he is a resident or a traveler. We advise husbands to fear Allah concerning their wives and to strive for reconciliation and family stability.