Is it permissible for me to use an iron rod or a knife to defend myself against someone who attacks and wrongs me, without the intention of killing, and is this person considered an aggressor?

Anyone who intends evil against another is considered an aggressor (صائل), and it is permissible to repel them from anything inviolable (ma‘sum): life, honor, property, or benefit. If the oppressor intends to assault you, then they are an aggressor, and it is legislated to repel them with whatever means will deter them. If they do not intend any of these things, then it is not permissible to engage in a fight with them. Repelling should be done with the lightest means, then progressively heavier ones. If it is possible to repel them with something less than striking with an iron rod or a knife, then it is not permissible to use these. However, if they cannot be repelled except by them, then there is no harm in using them. Repelling must begin with the lightest means, such as admonishment and seeking help, then striking with the hand, then with a whip, then a stick, then severing a limb, and then killing. The person being aggressed upon is obligated to flee or escape if possible. Violating this sequence entails liability if the sequence was possible to follow and the aggressor's blood is inviolable. However, if the sequence is impossible to follow, or if the aggressor's blood is not inviolable, then observing the sequence is not binding. If you cannot resist the aggressor except by what has been mentioned, then there is no blame upon you.