Does fear of betrayal by a Dhimmi (resident non-Muslim subject) void their covenant?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Jihad
Primary text
If a Dhimmi is feared to commit treachery, their covenant remains intact. The covenant of Dhimma is stronger because the Imam is obligated to grant it, it constitutes an exchange, and it is perpetual. This is evidenced by the fact that if some Dhimmi individuals break their commitment, the covenant of the remaining Dhimmi population is not nullified, unlike a temporary truce (Hudna). Additionally, Dhimmi residents are under the Imam's custody, and his guardianship is obligatory, thus the potential for great harm from their breach is less feared.
Supporting text
The covenant of a temporary truce (Hudna) or guarantee of safety (Aman) is weaker than the covenant of Dhimma. A breach by some in a Hudna invalidates the truce for all, unlike Dhimma. Furthermore, those under a truce are feared to potentially raid Muslims or cause significant harm by capturing Muslims, unlike the Dhimmi under established protection.