Is it permissible to appoint a non-believer to distribute Zakat?

It is permissible to appoint an agent for the disbursement of Zakat (definition). As for whether it is a condition for the agent to be a Muslim, there is a difference of opinion among scholars: The Hanafis, Shafi'is, and some Hanbalis are of the view that it is not a condition for the agent to be a Muslim, while the Hanbalis hold the view that it is a condition for him to be a Muslim. The preponderant opinion is the permissibility of appointing a disbeliever as an agent when there is a need, on the condition that the beneficiaries are specified for him so that the disbeliever delivers the money to them without any personal discretion in determining the beneficiaries. However, appointing a trustworthy Muslim as an agent is more preferable.