Is it permissible to fight rebels using methods that cause indiscriminate damage?

Primary text

It is forbidden to fight rebels using means that cause indiscriminate destruction, such as fire, catapults (manjaniq), or drowning, unless there is an absolute necessity. This prohibition is based on the principle that it is impermissible to kill non-combatants, and indiscriminate methods affect both those fighting and those not fighting. This ruling is held by Al-Shafi'i. The justification for permitting such extreme measures arises only when necessity dictates it, such as when the rebels use non-combatants as shields, and there is no other way to neutralize them except by employing means that cause indiscriminate damage.