What is the expiation for breaking fast due to being on a journey, or being sick, or being in a state of menstruation?
No expiation is due on the aforesaid categories, but they are obliged to make up for the missed fast. However, if any of them failed to do so while being able to, and the next Ramadhaan has come, then making up for those days is incumbent on him/her , and paying the ransom as well. And Allah Knows Best.
What is the ruling on aborting a fetus affected by thalassemia?
Praise be to Allah the Lord of the Worlds. May His peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Mohammad and upon all his family and companions.
If this is recommended by a trustworthy doctor who is god-fearing and knowledgeable, then it is permissible to have an abortion because some types of thalassemia are dangerous while some aren`t. And Allah The Almighty Knows Best.
Is it permissible for us to sever ties of kinship if our blood-relatives` gatherings/meetings involve acts of sin?
Observing kinship ties is obligatory, and paying your blood-relatives a visit causing their sinful acts to be hindered , then you should do so. However, if their sinful acts continue while you are at their gathering and they didn't respond positively, then observing kinship ties via telephone and the like will suffice in this case. And Allah Knows
Who is obligated to fast?
The one obligated to fast is the Muslim who is of sound mind, mature, capable of fasting, and free from obstacles such as menstruation or postpartum bleeding. And Allah Knows Best.