Q. I was listening to an Islamic lecturer (name withheld) and he said it is not permissible for Muslims to be under non-Muslim rule i.e. here in America. He said that if this is the case, then American Muslims should leave the non-Muslim country and go and live in an Islamic one.
Further, he said that this was derived from a hadeeth but failed to mention the hadeeth when telling this to his audience.
Also, he lives in the US so isn’t he contradicting himself by saying that? This particular person is known (hopefully not infamously) for making rash statements from time to time.
Could you please shed some light on this issue?

A. The scholar is correct if it is meant that under perfect conditions Muslims should live in Islamic countries that are governed by Islamic principles.

Such comments are made as to address a perfect situation. We are not living under such ‘ideal’ conditions. Thus, we must live wherever we can, and make best of our situation. I am sure the scholar would agree with this response as well, Allah-willing.

Also, the scholar does need not give a hadeeth for everything he mentions. It is sufficient for him to have a basis for it, and he does not need to share his reasoning with everyone at all times.

The scholar residing in the United States could be doing so for reasons we are unaware of, or beyond his control. Thus we would not be able to comment on the aspect of his residence, nor can we make a link nor seek a contradiction between his claim of jihad and him attaining the residence (or security) within the United States. His claim and residence are separate issues. One is personal whilst the other is public. The first question you have posed is correct. The second portion calls for us to ‘think’ into the scholars mind. This would be a waste of time and could lead to a sin if such thoughts go by unmonitored.

Allah Certainly Knows Best.