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The assassination of Lebanese Industry Minister Pierre Gemayel turned Lebanon's independence day into an even more sombre occasion. By Habib Haddad in the pan-Arab daily Al-Hayat

"Twenty-five years ago, it was not that common for women to don the veil and yet they were Muslims." -- Samir Farid, Masri Al-Yom

"Despite the existence of highly reputable voices doubting the concept of hijab, I don't understand why all this rage over an issue that has been controversial for many years." -- Assem Hanafi, Al-Qahira

"Could it be possible that in the 21st century we are still upholding the mentality of that of the 12th? -- Nabil Omar, Al-Ahram

"Certainly, pouring more troops into the Iraqi quagmire is not the best solution for the Americans, who must not forget their painful experience in Vietnam." -- Maher Othman, Al-Hayat

"The war on Iraq was driven by a rancour against the Arabs as a replacement of the hatred towards communism." -- Mustafa Zein, Al-Hayat

"The message to those in search of 'elegant solutions [in Iraq]' is simple: this is a war, stupid!" -- Amir Taheri, Asharq Al-Awsat