The Response to Those Who Claim That Hatib ibn Abi Balta'ah's Action Was Disbelief

Question:
May Allah reward you. Your Eminence, the father, the questioner asks: How do we respond to those who say that Hatib ibn Abi Balta'ah (may Allah be pleased with him) acted in support of the disbelievers? However, this incident was a specific case, particular to Hatib (may Allah be pleased with him). As for anyone who does what he did, their action is support for the disbelievers and a departure from the religion. How do we respond to such a claim?

Answer:
This person is ignorant. This person is ignorant and does not know that he is ignorant. He speaks about Hatib ibn Abi Balta'ah, the noble Companion, even though Allah has ruled in his favor that he had faith, and the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) testified to his truthfulness and excused him. And Allah did not say, "And whoever did that," as we have explained. Rather, He said, "And whoever among you does it in the future."