Some Ulama say that those who are already addicted to smoking cigarettes may continue smoking.

Answer

One of the factors (illats) for hurmat (prohibition) is dharar (harm). This illat has been proven with overwhelming evidence to exist in cigarettes. There is not a single difference of opinion on this issue. According to the Shariah eating sand, despite it being taahir, is haraam on account of the illlat of dharar. Those who claim that such a disastrously harmful substance as tobacco is permissible for addicts are in grave error. They have failed to understand the operation of Shar'i dalaa-il. Addiction is not a sabab-e-jawaaz (factor of permissibility) in terms of the Shariah. Liquor, drugs, etc. do not becoming permissible on account of addiction. Cigarettes are haraam for all – for the young and old – for the addicts and non-addicts. The addicts should gradually reduce their smoking until they are emancipated from this curse.