What is the ruling on artificial rain stimulation, knowing that its purpose is noble, such as alleviating the effects of drought and achieving food security?

There is no Shariah impediment to that, but two points must be noted: First: The descent of rain is solely in the hand of Allah, and what humans do is merely taking the means that Allah has inspired them with. Second: Specialists must be consulted to ensure that there is no harm to people from the use of chemical substances. The best way to obtain rain and abundant provision is through piety and seeking Allah's forgiveness. Allah Almighty says: "And said, 'Ask forgiveness of your Lord. Indeed, He is ever Forgiving. He will send [rain from] the sky upon you in [continual] showers'" (Noah: 10-11). And Allah Almighty says: "And if only the people of the cities had believed and feared Allah, We would have opened upon them blessings from the heaven and the earth" (Al-A'raf: 96).