Is suicide bombing permissible in Islam?

Answer

It is permissible for a Muslim to cast himself in battle against a vastly superior, stronger enemy regardless of the enemy's number or weaponry. Even if one Muslim charges into the midst of a 100 armed kuffar to fight them, it is permissible. Despite the heavy odds against him, there is the possibility, no matter how remote, of him emerging alive.

In this scenario, killing himself is not the intention even though all indications are that he will be killed. However, if he is fitted with explosives to act as a 'suicide bomber', he goes into battle with the intention to kill himself. Regardless of the nobility of his intention, his method and intention of killing himself are not permissible.