What is the authenticity of the حديث (Hadith) that mentions the Prophet and Ali destroying idols on the surface of the Kaaba before the Hijra, and is it permissible to initiate an attack against disbelievers before acquiring strength, inferring from this hadith?

The hadith that speaks of demolishing idols before the conquest—scholars have differed on its authenticity. Some affirmed it, while others weakened it. Among those who weakened it are Al-Zayla'i, Al-Dhahabi, Al-Arna'ut, Al-Huwayni, and Al-Bayruti. Even if the hadith were authentic, it does not prove the permissibility of killing disbelievers before sufficient power is attained. Rather, it indicates the legitimacy of changing evil by hand for one who is safe from greater harm. This is affirmed by the action of Ibrahim (peace be upon him) in smashing the idols of his people, and the Prophet’s (peace and blessings be upon him) command to Ali (may Allah be pleased with him) to remove statues. Al-Tabari used this hadith as evidence for the permissibility of a Muslim changing what he touches if he sees something with which Allah is disobeyed, such as musical instruments, by transforming it into a form that removes its reprehensible meaning.