It is permissible for any Muslim to grant an individual non-Muslim amān (safe-conduct), provided that doing so brings no harm to the Muslims. The proof is the Almighty’s statement: “If any of the polytheists seeks your protection, then grant him protection so that he may hear the words of Allah; then convey him to a place of safety” (Qur’an 9:6).

The imam may likewise grant amān to all of the polytheists or to some of them, for his jurisdiction is comprehensive. Private citizens, however, may not extend such protection unless the imam approves it. A regional governor may grant amān to the people of a town that falls within his immediate sphere of authority.