As a cultural and religious studies expert with a deep interest in the Middle East, I can provide a comprehensive answer to your question about the most common religion in the region. The Middle East is a diverse and complex region with a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and religions. However, when it comes to the most prevalent religious affiliation, Islam stands out as the dominant faith.

**Islam in the Middle East: Dominance and Diversity**
Islam is the most common religion in the Middle East, with the majority of the population adhering to one of its two main branches: Sunni and Shia Islam. The religion has a profound influence on the social, political, and cultural life of the region. It is important to note that while Islam is the dominant faith, the Middle East is not a monolithic entity in terms of religious practice or interpretation.

Sunni Islam
Sunni Islam is the largest branch of the religion, with followers known as Sunnis. They represent about 85-90% of the world's Muslim population. In the Middle East, countries such as Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates have predominantly Sunni populations. Sunni Islam is characterized by a more decentralized religious authority, with scholars and local leaders playing significant roles in interpreting religious texts and laws.

Shia Islam
Shia Islam is the second largest branch, with followers known as Shias. They make up about 10-15% of the global Muslim population. In the Middle East, Iran is a predominantly Shia country, and Shia Muslims also form significant minorities in countries like Iraq, Bahrain, and Lebanon. Shia Islam is often associated with the leadership of religious scholars known as Ayatollahs, who have a more centralized religious authority.

**Other Religious Traditions in the Middle East**
While Islam is the most common religion, the Middle East is also home to other religious traditions. As you mentioned, in Israel, a significant portion of the population practices Judaism. Israel is the only state in the Middle East where Islam is not the majority faith. The Jewish population in Israel is predominantly Jewish, and the country is recognized as the Jewish state. Judaism has deep historical roots in the region, with a connection to the ancient Israelite kingdom.

Additionally, there are small Christian communities scattered throughout the Middle East, with significant populations in countries like Egypt, Lebanon, and Syria. The Middle East is also the birthplace of Christianity, with many important religious sites located in the region.

Religious Minorities and Tolerance
It is also worth mentioning the presence of religious minorities in the Middle East. There are Baha'is, Druze, Yazidis, and other smaller religious groups that contribute to the religious diversity of the region. The level of tolerance and coexistence among these groups varies from country to country and is influenced by a range of historical, political, and social factors.

Conclusion
In conclusion, while Islam is the most common religion in the Middle East, the region's religious landscape is diverse and multifaceted. Understanding the nuances of religious practice and the interplay between religion and society is crucial for a deeper comprehension of the Middle East's complex cultural mosaic.

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In addition to Islam, other religions are practiced in the Middle East. For example, in Israel 82% of the population are Jews who practice Judaism. Israel the only state in the Middle East where Islam is not the majority faith.read more >>