Question Summary:
Explanation of the verse 49:8, can this be used to justify fighting between Muslim groups?

Question Detail:

My question is regarding this verse of quran-‘’ And if two factions among the believers should fight, then make settlement between the two. But if one of them oppresses the other, then fight against the one that oppresses until it returns to the ordinance of Allah . And if it returns, then make settlement between them in justice and act justly. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.’’
Could the respected Scholars please give an explanation of this verse, may we use this verse to justify fighting between muslims these days? In what conditions do we judge who is the oppressor and oppressed? I ask of this out of curiosity, I see many debates online regarding this verse’s being put in action. I am really so confused. I want to know what is truth. 

Answer :

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa rahmatullāhi wa barakātuh.
The verse in reference is discussing a situation that may arise in the context of an Islāmic polity. In such a context, if two parties of Muslims engage in hostilities against each other, either due to some worldly or religious dispute, the ruler of the polity or his deputies are required to intervene. They must first invite both parties to accept a settlement based on the dictates of justice found in the Qur’ān and Sunnah.
After having done so, if one party has accepted the offer and the other party, or some members from them, refuse and continue hostilities, the Islāmic polity must end the hostilities of the transgressing party using military force until it accepts the invitation of a fair mediation.
When the transgressing party accepts the invitation, the Islāmic polity will then make a just and peaceable settlement between the two parties.[1]
The ‘ulamā’ have deduced other rulings from this verse pertaining to rebels in an Islāmic state.
And Allah Ta‘ālā Knows Best
Zameelur Rahman
Student Darul Iftaa
UK
Checked and Approved by,
Mufti Ebrahim Desai.
www.daruliftaa.net