Is it necessary to wage war against a country that causes mischief (fitnah)?

Fitnah is mentioned in the chapters of al-Maida 5:33 and al-Baqara 2:190-193. In this context, if obscenity is prevalent in a country, can a Muslim country wage war against it?

The following is stated in the chapter of al-Baqara 2:190-193:

“And kill them wherever you overtake them and expel them from wherever they have expelled you, and fitnah is worse than killing. And do not fight them at al-Masjid al-Haram until they fight you there. But if they fight you, then kill them. Such is the recompense of the disbelievers.” (al-Baqara 2:191)

“And if they cease, then indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.” (al-Baqara 2:192)

“Fight them until there is no [more] fitnah and [until] worship is [acknowledged to be] for Allah. But if they cease, then there is to be no aggression except against the oppressors.” (al-Baqara 2:193)

Based on the Sahih International English translation, the word fitnah includes the following meanings: denial, separation, turmoil, civil war, wrongdoing, oppression, injustice, seduction, trial and torment.

Therefore, if there is idolatry in a country and women dress immodestly, they are first given advice and warned peacefully. However, if they refuse, can a Muslim army break the idols in the temples and churches of that country?

The Holy Prophet broke idols at the conquest of Makkah. Therefore, is such an action permissible and is it considered jihad?

Thank you. May Allah reward you well!

Dear Brother / Sister,

Yes, fitnah is a word used in the sense of denial, separation, turmoil, civil war, wrongdoing, oppression, injustice, seduction, trial and torment.

War cannot be waged for all of these meanings.

If there is idolatry in a country and women dress immodestly, war is not declared against that country for those reasons. That country is invited to Islam. If they do not accept Islam, they are offered peace or submission; if they accept, no war is waged.

Those who fight against the religion and homeland of Muslims are fought back. In the country conquered by such a war, the Islamic state may destroy idols if it deems it necessary.

Questions on Islam