What is the ruling regarding a wife who left the marital home, took the children, and disappeared? Does she deserve alimony? Is her action considered khulʿ?

The basic principle is that a woman is not permitted to leave her husband's house except with his permission; otherwise, she would be disobedient and rebellious (nashiz), and her right to maintenance would be forfeited. However, exceptions are made for cases of necessity, such as purchasing essentials, fear of the house collapsing, or going to a judge or a mufti. A wife leaving her husband's house does not result in the annulment or dissolution of the marriage, and the marital bond remains intact. The husband can try to reunite the family. Both spouses should observe their rights, maintain a good relationship, strive for understanding, and seek assistance from righteous people to reconcile between them, as all mistakes can be remedied if intentions for reform are sincere.