Is it permissible to burn enemy combatants with fire?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Jihad
Primary text
It is impermissible to burn living, captured enemy combatants with fire, by unanimous scholarly agreement known to us. Although Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq ordered the burning of apostates (Ahl al-Riddah), and Khalid bin Al-Walid acted upon this order, there is no known disagreement today regarding the prohibition of burning captives. The Prophet, peace be upon him, explicitly commanded a commander to kill a specific captive but 'not burn him, for none punishes with fire except the Lord of Fire.'
Supporting text
Regarding attacking the enemy with fire before capture, it is impermissible if they can be overpowered without it, as they are in the status of being capable of capture. However, if overwhelming them without fire is impossible, it is permissible, according to the majority of scholars, including Al-Thawri, Al-Awza'i, and Al-Shafi'i. Historical practice shows governors using fire weapons against the Romans.