What is the ruling on opening floodgates (for inundation) against the enemy during conquest?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Jihad

Book 54 · Issue 15 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

Opening floodgates to drown the enemy is forbidden if it leads to the intentional destruction of women and children, whose deliberate killing is prohibited. However, if they can only be subdued by this method, it is permissible, similar to launching a night surprise attack (bayat) which may result in such consequences.