Is masturbation permissible or forbidden in a case where one is unable to marry? And is it permissible to use it to relieve sexual urges in order to avoid forbidden acts, especially given reliance on the Hanbali school of thought?

The Hanbalis view masturbation as forbidden except in cases of extreme necessity, such as fear of committing zina (unlawful sexual intercourse) or fear for one's physical health due to semen retention when marriage is not possible. Some scholars believe it is forbidden even if one fears zina, citing the fact that fasting was made an alternative to marriage. The natural surge of desire is not a justification for masturbation; the prophetic remedy for it is marriage, or fasting for those who cannot marry. For chastity, it is recommended to avoid forbidden sights and sounds, occupy one's time with beneficial deeds, and keep company with the righteous.