Question :
Is it permissible to pay Zakat to the people of Gaza and delegate charities to deliver it to them?
The Answer :
The disbursement of Zakat is determined in Islamic law and restricted to the eight categories mentioned in the Quran: "Alms are for the poor and the needy, and those employed to administer the (funds); for those whose hearts have been (recently) reconciled (to Truth); for those in bondage and in debt; in the cause of God; and for the wayfarer: (thus is it) ordained by God, and God is full of knowledge and wisdom.." { At-Tawbah, 60}.
In addition, it is permissible to transfer Zakat to a country other than where it was originally obligated, especially when there is a general and urgent need for it, as is the case in Gaza. There, people are steadfast and resilient, and there is a dire need to support the afflicted population.
Our scholars have affirmed the permissibility of authorization in the disbursement of Zakat. For instance, Imam An-Nawawi (may Allah have mercy on him) said in his book "Al-Majmu, Vol.6, Page165'": "A person can delegate someone to distribute their Zakat themselves. Either they can delegate someone for payment to the Imam and the collector, or they can delegate someone for distributing it into the specific categories. Both of these options are permissible without any dispute among the scholars."
We recommend that the aid be provided through the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organization to ensure the delivery of assistance to our brothers in Gaza, as it is the body that can guarantee the proper distribution of aid. And Allah the Almighty knows best.