Principles of Islamic Foreign Policy (War and Peace as a Model)

Abstract

War and peace are considered fundamental principles in Islamic foreign policy. From the Islamic perspective, they are not merely means to achieve Islamic objectives but are closely linked to the principles of Islamic law (Sharia) and its general and specific interests in establishing justice, spreading goodness, and preventing corruption.

The approach adopted in dealing with issues of war and peace is based on a balance between realism, interest, and morality in harmony with Islamic politics. Thus, peace is regarded as the primary principle, while war is the exception, permitted only by necessity. War and peace in Islam are seen as natural phenomena belonging to the material world, whereas in the metaphysical world there exists nothing but absolute peace.

The state of war and conflict cannot be separated from human life in this world, since man possesses a material dimension and lives in a world of movement, change, and competition. This war, which accompanies human existence, may take the form of attack at times and defense at others. Hence, there is no difference in the mere occurrence of war between the divine prophets — the teachers of humanity — and tyrannical rulers.

The essential difference between them lies in the motive and the ultimate purpose, which represent the spirit and essence of the act. Through the blessing of divine revelation and the teachings of the Holy Book, the prophets nurture human nature so that it may flourish and prosper. With the gleam of their swords, they defend the sanctity of revelation and protect the oppressed against the arrogant powers on earth.

As Allah Almighty says:

“We sent Our messengers with clear signs, and We sent down with them the Book and the Balance so that people may uphold justice. And We sent down iron, in which is mighty power and many benefits for mankind.” (Qur’an 57:25)

From this, it becomes clear that all people experience both war and peace in their natural lives — leaders and followers alike, those who follow the path of truth and those who follow the path of falsehood. The fundamental difference between these two directions lies in the principle and goal that motivate them.

Can war be reconciled with divine mercy?

Scholars in general — and revolutionary leaders in particular — have inherited these two lofty traits from the infallible divine leaders. These divine leaders possess pure, loving, and compassionate souls, while at the same time embodying the spirit of defense and resistance, standing firmly against the tyranny of oppressors.

To understand this matter, one must reflect upon the supplications (munajat) of the Imams (peace be upon them). They and their sincere disciples were known for combining courage and valor in battle with gentleness, compassion, and intimate devotion to the Divine.

In particular, Imam Ali (peace be upon him), through his instructions on the battlefield, demonstrated that divine religion harmonizes strength and sacred defense — showing that it is possible for a person to be both devoted to prayer and supplication, and also a warrior in battle.

Thus, the complete human being can embody divine truth through both gentleness and mercy, as well as through righteous anger and sacred struggle.

There are numerous examples among our great scholars and religious authorities who have combined war and peace, love and mercy in their lives and in their approach to Islamic foreign policy.