CAIRO (Islam Online)-The Mufti of Egypt said that World Health Organization (WHO) awarded Dar Al-Ifta, an award for the Fatwa that the Ifta published regarding smoking. It said smoking is Haram, because of its damaging effects to the human health. WHO commended the Mufti for the good step towards fighting smoking.

Speaking to Islam Online, Dr. Wasil mentioned that WHO believes the Fatwa has benefits not only Muslim countries, but also non-Muslim countries worldwide.

He said some of the lawsuit filed in the West against smoking, used the Fatwa as evidence against the Tobacco Companies, "we can clearly without hesitation say smoking is not permitted in Islam," said Dr. Wasil.

Adding he would like to see Tobacco Manufacturing Companies be closed in the long run because of the health, societal, financial and cultural devastation they caused based on evidence and documentations review by them.

Suggesting addict smokers struggling to quit smoking, to gradually take medical, social and spiritual steps that would help them quit. When asked about tobacco manufacturers. He replied "It is unlawful Islamically to produce tobacco and sell tobacco in a Muslim country, hazardous to the individual and society."

When ask about some people who say smoking is undesirable, but not forbidden, he explained, "the lawful and unlawful Islamically is subjected to benefits and harm."