How can human free will and the occurrence of the minor signs of the Hour, which necessitate the existence of evil, be reconciled if God has decreed the occurrence of these signs?

To deal with obsessive thoughts about divine decree (Qadar), one must seek refuge in the principle that Allah wrongs no one, and the mind should not delve into the details of the unseen. Believing in divine decree and destiny without asking "why" or "how" is the creed of Ahlus-Sunnah wal-Jama'ah (the People of the Sunnah and the Community). To get rid of these شبهات (misconceptions/doubts), it is recommended to seek refuge in Allah from Satan. As for the Signs of the Hour, they are a test and a trial, and responsibility lies with those who choose evil deeds by their own will. The fact that their actions are a Sign of the Hour does not excuse them; rather, it is an argument against them to repent. Everything that occurs is by Allah's decree, but humans have complete choice in their actions and will be held accountable for them. It is not permissible to use divine decree as an excuse to justify disobedience; for the doer commits it by their own choice, and will be held accountable for this choice.