FOREIGN RELATIONS:

Following the arrival of the Prophet (pbuh) in Medina, the Arabic tribes accepted Islam. The Jews were the only tribe that did not accept Islam. Prophet Muhammad showed that he had no prejudice against them, by announcing in his Medina Document that Jews had equal civil status. However after some time it was understood that the Jews did not wish to abandon their idea of being a superior race, and were fearful that they would assimilate into a mixed society where they were ruled by a foreign prophet. Even though the Prophet did not aim to convert them to Islam and only searched for a common agreement ground and an opportunity for a peaceful cooperation, Jews did not provide a solid image of agreement. They became an opposition group in accordance with the conjuncture of the battle against the Quraish. An atmosphere of insecurity resulting from such a growing negative attitude led the Prophet to change his opinion against them. Jews were eventually displaced from the region, not because of religious motives, but because they caused political, social and economic disruption.

The Prophet acted in accordance with the diplomatic traditions unless there was a religious obstacle. When he wished to send a letter to the Byzantine emperor, he was reminded that the Byzantine would not read unsealed letters, thus he sent the letters sealed. In concordance with the traditions of Arabs, he called for the use of flags both during his arrival in Medina and in all his military operations. Holy Prophet exhibited great diplomatic precision and wisdom within his letters in terms of the rhetoric and the conveyance of his intentions. It is understood by his messengers’ mesmerizing speeches before the foreign rulers in terms of thoughts and style that his messengers had remarkable diplomatic skills.

Holy Prophet acted mildly and generously towards the leaders of other societies and religions and showed respect for them in order to establish peaceful relations and maintain peace. This attitude of him was a part of his foreign policy. Scholars interpreted the following hadith “When a head of a tribe comes to you, treat them well” (Ibn Maja, “Adab”, 19) and stated that there is no criterion such as religion on this issue and that Holy Prophet treated the pagan leaders with modesty and showed high respect for their office.