The default ruling is that Zakāh must be paid when the wealth reaches the niṣāb (minimum threshold), a lunar year has passed over it, and it is free from outstanding debts and duties.

However, according to a group of scholars, Zakāh is not immediately obligatory (i.e., it may be delayed slightly), which means the Zakāh payer is permitted to separate the Zakāh amount from their wealth and distribute it as needs arise.

Nevertheless, it is not advisable for the Zakāh payer to withhold Zakāh for the reason mentioned in the question—because the war may, God forbid, last for years, and no one knows what developments may follow. Meanwhile, there are others in dire need of Zakāh right now to whom it can be delivered.

Moreover, this kind of delay may lead to neglect in fulfilling the obligation of Zakāh, especially if it accumulates over years.

Our view is that the Zakāh payer should pay their Zakāh at its due time. If a need arises later to support our brothers and sisters in Palestine, then we are religiously obliged to contribute from our wealth in charity and financial support. At that time, it would also be permissible to pay Zakāh in advance for future years.

Fatwā issued by Dr. Khālid Naṣr