Is it permissible to delay circumcision for a new convert to Islam?

Question:
Some organizations, when a disbeliever embraces Islam, immediately begin to circumcise him, which has had a significant effect in repelling some of them from Islam. What is your Eminence’s opinion on this?

Answer:
What I see is that one should not rush to circumcise him; it should be postponed. He should be taught about Islam, guided to Islam, and invited to it, and one should not rush to circumcise him. He may be repelled by Islam, and it may harm him since he is an adult. The majority of scholars hold that circumcision is a recommended practice (sunnah); it is not obligatory. A group of scholars held it to be obligatory, stating that this is the case as long as no harm is feared for him. If he grows up and is not circumcised, and there is no harm in leaving it, then those who embrace Islam as adults may be at risk of harm if they are circumcised, and they may be repelled at the outset. Even though circumcision is now easier, and doctors now have good knowledge of this matter, in my view it is better not to rush into it so that they are not repelled from entering Islam. It should be postponed until a later time.