What is the ruling when a hostile combatant uses a Muslim as a shield before the arrow is shot?

Chapter on Retaliation (Qawad)

Al-Mughni

Book of Wounds

Book 47 · Issue 2 · Bab 2

Open in Qurani

Primary text

If the hostile combatant shields himself with a Muslim before the shot, it is not permissible for the archer to shoot, unless there is a fear for the safety of the Muslims. In such a case, the archer may shoot the hostile combatant, provided the Muslim is not intended as the target. In this scenario, there are two narrations concerning the responsibility for the Muslim's *diyah* if killed.