What is the best use of zakah for the poor, the indebted, and jihad?

Question:
Is it better to give zakah to the poor, to those who are in debt, or to the mujahideen in the path of Allah?

Answer:
They are all among the recipients of zakah. If you give it to the poor, they are entitled to it. If you give it to the debtors who are unable to pay, they are entitled to it. If you give it in the path of Allah, they are entitled to it. It depends on the need. If the people of jihad are in need, then the people of jihad are the best. If the poor are in dire need and can be saved by zakah so that they do not die, the situation varies. One must strive to determine the best course.
Q: What if he divides it among them?
The Shaykh: It is all permissible, and he has a choice. If he wishes, he may give it to these or those. Whichever category he gives it to, it is sufficient: the poor, or in the path of Allah, or to the debtors, or for freeing captives, or for those whose hearts are to be reconciled, as Allah the Exalted has explained. The matter is broad.