The term "non-Muslim" comprises all disbeliveers. They can be classified into four categories: hostile non-Muslims, non-Muslims seeking asylum in an Islamic environment, covenanted non-Muslims and Dhimmi (non-Muslims living among the Muslims and paying Jizya " tax).

Hostile non-Muslim have no right to protection, whatsoever. Non-Muslims seeking refuge and security in an Islamic territory have the right to full protection, and here Allah says:

"And if anyone of the Mushrikūn (polytheists, idolaters, pagans, disbeliveers in the Oneness of Allah) seek your protection then grant him protection, so that he may hear the Word of Allah (the Qur"an), and then escort him to where he can be secure..." (9:6)

The covenantee non-Muslims have the right to holding us committed to honor the covenant we entered upon with them so long as they commit themselves to the articles of the agreement, and neither conspire against us nor slander our religion. Allah says:

"Except those of the Mushrikūn with whom you have a treaty, and who have not subsequently failed you in augth, nor have supported anyone against you. So fulfil their treaty to them to the end of their term. Surely Allah loves Al-Muttaqūn (the pious)." (9:4)

But Allah Almighty goes on saying:

"But if they violate their oaths after their covenant, and attack your religion with disapproval and criticism then fight (you) the leaders of disbelief (chiefs of Quraish ¾ pagans of Makka) ¾ for surely their oaths are nothing to them." (9:12)

Dhimmi are the group most eligible for rights, because they live in an Islamic territory and under the protection of the Muslims, besides the Jizya (tribute) they pay to the public treasury. Here the Muslim Imam (ruler) has to judge by the light of what Allah revealed in all matters relating to lives, property and honor. He is also bound to observe the fixed punishment recognized among them. Last and foremost, the Leader of the Muslims is under strict obligation to provide protection to them and shield them against any sort of potential or actual harm that may befall them.

Dhimmi must be discriminated from Muslims in their attire. They are not allowed to display any abominable deed or gesture that could go in conflict with Islam such as the cross or bell.

Praise is to Allah, the Lord of the worlds; and peace and blessings of Allah be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his Family and all his Companions.

P.S. Observation of the above mentioned rules promotes amity among Muslims and removes all traces of enmity and hatred, moreover, the working in the light of these rules blots out sins, augments good deeds and exalts him in degrees of rank whose abides by them. May Allah render success to Muslims and again, peace and blessings of Allah be on our Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon Him).