The transition to a Muslim religious identity in Iraq, Syria, Egypt, and North Africa was largely peaceful and gradual, with many people converting to Islam over a period of several centuries. This was due in part to the fact that these regions were already familiar with monotheistic religions like Judaism and Christianity, and Islam was seen as a continuation of these traditions. Additionally, the early Muslim rulers of these regions were generally tolerant of other religions and allowed non-Muslims to practice their faith as long as they paid a special tax.
In contrast, the transition to a Muslim religious identity in Iran/Persia, Turkey, and Pakistan was more abrupt and often accompanied by violence. This was due in part to the fact that these regions had a strong pre-Islamic identity and culture, and many people saw Islam as a foreign religion that threatened their way of life. Additionally, the early Muslim rulers of these regions were often less tolerant of other religions and sought to convert people to Islam through force or coercion.
Overall, the transition to a Muslim religious identity varied depending on the region and the specific historical context, with some transitions being more peaceful and gradual and others being more violent and abrupt.