Is it permissible to lie in order to reconcile an engaged couple, and is the resulting marriage valid?

A valid marriage has pillars and conditions that must be met. One should not be content with getting to know the suitor online; rather, inquiring about him from trustworthy people is better, because marriages conducted in this manner often fail. After consultation, it is preferable to perform Istikhara (prayer for guidance) to achieve success. As for lying, it is informing contrary to reality, and it is not permissible except for an overriding benefit. In evasive speech (al-ma'arid), there is room to avoid lying.