I'm feeling this overwhelming need to sound off on the matter, so I'll use this entry to do so. This is not meant to offend anyone, or to set off any controversial discussion.

Let me begin by saying: I side w/ Israel in this matter. They are defending themselves against Hezbollah. I agree that what is unfolding for Lebanon is a tragedy- but the country/government is unable or unwilling to control it, and so Israel is doing it themselves. Hezbollah, as well as other parties are unwilling to recognize the existence of Israel; even calling for its complete anhilation. I am of the opinion, that as long as such hatred exists in the region; it will never be entirely at peace- and such violent periods as we're seeing now would be inevitable.

Now we come to the thorny issue of how to solve the current situation. Does the international community allow it to run its course? or does it step in and solve it? Here, I think that even if there was to be an instant ceasefire tomorrow, it would be too late; the damage would have been done.
I think that the USA, and Brits have lost their credibility with the international community- to act as mediators because of the mess they're making in Iraq. The U.N. is pretty ineffectual as well- the damage done by the USA is catching up with them. But the U.N. is still in a better position to negotiate; having a wider-range of countries represented on it.
And speaking of the United Nations; the bombing of their post, was a mistake. What would Israel have to gain in purposefully bombing a UN post? Think about it. A better question: Why didn't the UN take their personnel out before the fighting got too bad? Now, that could have an interesting answer...

The best approach, I think would be a limited international force, including a majority of soldiers provided by middle-eastern countries themselves. It's time that Iraq/Iran/Syria/Jordan/Egypt/Israel/Saudi Arabia, all had a hand in ensuring peace- maybe then, they'd be less likely to break it.

History they say; is doomed to repetition. It's almost like people never learn their lessons the first time around. Let's see if we can prove that saying wrong; and find a lasting peace for the Mid-east for all our sakes.