Ahl Kitaab/mushrik
But even after itmam-e-hujjat, their punishment was kept different from that of other Mushriks of Arab, which clearly means that even after itmam-e-hujjat, due regard was given by God to their monotheistic beliefs, however distorted they were.
The one who argues that “ the Ahl-e-Kitab also had a history of books and prophets which just made them all the more responsible or answerable in front of God as compared to the Mushriks of Arabia “, should provide its basis from Quran along with its relationship with difference in punishments between Ahl-e-Kitaab and Mushriks. Quran is very clear about Shirk, when done knowingly, is an unforgivable sin. Hence, this explains the difference in magnitude of punishments imposed on both parties. Also, Quran is very clear about punishment imposed on Ahl-e-kitaab, therefore, there is no point in comparing them with Hypocrites of that time.