A person asks about the obligation to pay compensation or medical costs after defending themselves against an attacker.
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1 Answer
Peace be upon you and God's mercy and blessings.
Ayatollah Khamenei (may God protect him):
There is no doubt that a person is allowed to defend themselves against an attacker, thief, or similar aggressor as much as they can. It is recommended to defend oneself in the easiest way possible; for instance, if one can deter the attacker by warning them or making a noise (like clearing their throat), they should do so. If that does not work, they may escalate to shouting or threatening. If necessary, they can use their hands, a stick, or a sword to inflict injury if it is possible to defend themselves this way. If the only option is to kill the attacker, it is permissible to use any lethal means. However, one must follow a sequence of actions if possible and if there is no fear of being overpowered. If there is a fear of losing the opportunity or being overpowered while following the sequence, it is not obligatory to adhere to it, and one may use whatever means necessary to defend themselves. If the defender does not exceed the necessary limits and causes financial or physical harm to the attacker, or even death, it is considered excusable, and there is no liability on the defender.
Source: Tahrir al-Wasilah, Defense, Self-Defense, Articles 1 + 6 + 7
Ayatollah Sistani (may God protect him):
It is permissible to defend oneself as long as it does not lead to killing.
Source: Short Messages for Legal Inquiries - Qom Office.
May you be successful in all good.