Is it correct to advise smokers to gradually quit smoking, based on the actions of the Companions in their abandoning of alcohol?

Smoking is Islamically forbidden (haram), and one must avoid it immediately, based on the Prophet's (peace be upon him) saying: "Whatever I have forbidden for you, avoid it."

However, if a smoker lacks the resolve to quit immediately, it is permissible to approach the matter gradually by reducing consumption. This is because Islamic law seeks to minimize evil if it cannot be entirely prevented. This is not akin to the gradual prohibition of alcohol, which was a gradualism in the ruling itself. Rather, it is a gradual approach in calling to good and enjoining righteousness according to one's capabilities. Allah (the Exalted) says: "So fear Allah as much as you are able."