The Council for Islamic Research and Legal Studies, affiliated with Libya’s Dar al-Ifta, has called on Muslims in Libya and beyond to direct their Zakat al-Fitr donations to Gaza, citing the severe famine and blockade imposed by the Israeli occupation.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Council highlighted severe shortages of food, water, medicine, and other essential supplies in the besieged enclave.
It justified the call based on the teachings of Imam Malik and Imam Abu Hanifa, who permitted the transfer of zakat to those in greater need. The council also referenced Companion Mu’adh ibn Jabal, who sent charity from Yemen to Medina to support those in hardship.
The statement emphasized the principle of Muslim solidarity and pointed to historical Islamic rulings that allow the redirection of zakat to regions affected by famine and extreme poverty.
Muslims were urged to send their Zakat al-Fitr through trusted organizations before Thursday, the 27th of Ramadan, to ensure it reaches those in need.
The council concluded by expressing solidarity with the people of Gaza and praying for relief for those affected by conflict and hardship worldwide.
