Exploring the Qur'anic Principles of Breach of Treaty in Islamic International Law

In Islamic International Law, a treaty refers to an agreement between the Islamic State and other states and international organizations, whether definite (peace, amnesty, etc.) or indefinite, i.e. based on the requirements of the Islamic State during peace in international relations.  The important role of treaties in these relations is indisputable. On the other hand, the violation of treaty will have an adverse effect on international relations. Since Islamic sources never allow violation of treaty, this paper studies some Qur'anic verses on the violation of treaty and points out some important principles such as the principle of non-violation of treaty even with non-Muslims, unless the treaty is violated by one side and retaliation is permissible. Similarly, the abrogation of treaty is subject to conditions such as the emergence of evidence indicating violation, announcement of the abrogation of treaty, and maintenance of Muslims’ honor and dignity that governs all treaties etc. Along with these legal principles, there are also some ethical principles that add to the stability of treaty with the commitment of the parties.