In today’s global political landscape, there have been numerous instances where individuals or opposition groups seek the support of foreign powers to change or overthrow their own government. A pertinent example is the involvement of external powers, such as the United States, in domestic affairs of countries facing political turmoil. A common question arises in such contexts: What is the Islamic perspective on seeking foreign support to overthrow a regime or government?

From an Islamic perspective, the Shari’ah provides clear guidance on this issue. The concept of seeking foreign assistance, particularly from non-Muslim powers, in matters concerning the governance of a Muslim country is problematic and not supported by Islamic teachings.

The Islamic View on Loyalty and Foreign Intervention

Islam places great emphasis on the sovereignty and integrity of Muslim countries. Seeking the help of non-Muslim powers to interfere in the internal affairs of a Muslim nation is discouraged, as it poses significant risks to the welfare and autonomy of the nation. Even when a government or regime fails to meet the needs of its people or causes harm to the country, turning to foreign intervention is not an acceptable solution in Islam. This approach often results in the imposition of external agendas that serve the interests of foreign powers rather than the well-being of the people.

Islam does not endorse replacing one oppressive regime with another that is controlled by foreign powers, as this would often lead to greater harm, including the exploitation of the nation’s resources and the undermining of its sovereignty. As noted by prominent Islamic scholars, such actions can have long-lasting negative consequences for the Muslim community.

The Role of Ahl al-Hall wa al-`Aqd

In Islam, the responsibility to address the failure of a government lies with Ahl al-Hall wa al-`Aqd, a group of righteous and experienced individuals who have the right to remove a ruler if they fail to fulfill their duties toward the nation. These individuals should work for the welfare of the people and seek to rectify the situation without resorting to foreign interference. Islam stresses that the ruler’s role is to protect religious teachings and manage worldly affairs in the best interest of the people. However, seeking the support of non-Muslim powers undermines this process and brings more harm than good.

The Warnings from the Qur’an

Several verses in the Qur’an warn against seeking the friendship and support of disbelievers who oppose Islam and the Muslim community. Allah says:

  • “O ye who believe! If ye obey those who disbelieve, they will make you turn back on your heels, and ye turn back as losers.” (Al `Imran: 149)
  • “O ye who believe! Choose not My enemy and your enemy for friends.” (Al-Mumtahina: 1)

These verses emphasize the dangers of forming alliances with those who oppose Islam and the Muslim community. Obeying them or showing loyalty to them can lead to disobedience to Allah and harm to the Muslim Ummah.

The Importance of Self-Reliance and Trust in Allah

While it is the right of any nation to oppose an unjust regime, Islam emphasizes that trust in Allah is paramount in addressing such issues. Seeking to change a government or remove a ruler should be done by relying on internal wisdom, self-reliance, and working within the framework of Islamic principles. Relying on foreign powers only weakens the position of the nation and allows external entities to impose their own interests, often to the detriment of the Muslim community.

Sheikh Yusuf Al-Qaradawi and Sheikh `Atiyyah Saqr, two prominent Islamic scholars, have emphasized that loyalty to non-Muslims, particularly those who oppose the interests of Muslims, is forbidden in Islam. While Islam allows for kindness and justice in dealings with non-Muslims who do not oppose Muslims, it prohibits showing loyalty or seeking their assistance in undermining the Muslim community’s sovereignty and interests.

Conclusion

In light of the Islamic teachings, seeking the support of foreign powers to overthrow a government or regime is not permissible. While it is the right of the people to oppose oppressive rulers, this should be done with wisdom and within the bounds of Islamic principles. Seeking external assistance often results in greater harm and undermines the sovereignty of Muslim nations. Muslims are advised to place their trust in Allah and work toward solutions that uphold the dignity, justice, and sovereignty of their countries without relying on foreign intervention.

Islam teaches that true change and reform come from within the community, guided by wisdom, faith, and reliance on Allah’s guidance. It is crucial for Muslims to understand that external intervention rarely serves their best interests and often leads to further exploitation and oppression.