Second: This policy also conserves the manpower and equipment of the Muslim army. The energy preserved becomes a reserve for a future engagement where stratagem will be of no benefit and the army still faces a long march ahead.

5 – The ḥadith therefore serves as evidence that such a tactic is permissible, for the Prophet ﷺ said, “War is deception.” It is a deception, however, that involves no treachery and no violation of covenants.

6 – It has already been noted that the Prophet ﷺ never launched an assault against an enemy without first calling them to Islam and giving them full warning.