Is a husband's complete abandonment of his wife and cessation of all communication with her, after informing her that he does not want or love her, considered a valid divorce according to Sharia, especially given that their civil marriage ended years ago, and what now binds them is an Islamic marriage contract concluded in Thailand?
Annulment of a civil marriage, separation, abandonment, and a husband's statement to his wife "I don't want you" or "I don't love you" do not constitute divorce unless there is an intention of divorce. Some scholars even hold that it does not constitute divorce even with the intention. A husband must be just between his two wives, even if they are in different countries. He should pursue means of reconciliation if the wife is disobedient; otherwise, he should divorce her and not leave her in limbo. Documenting marriage and divorce contracts is important to avoid corruption.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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