Tensions along Israel's northern border are growing as Hezbollah forces tighten their grip on southern Lebanon.

But UN soldiers are only observers. They have no desire to risk their lives in a foreign conflict. UN soldiers seem to want nothing more than to leave southern Lebanon, just as they are threatening to do in the Golan Heights, where Syrian rebel forces have repeatedly threatened their lives.

It would appear that Israel must constantly be taught the lesson that it cannot rely on the United Nations or any outside force in an emergency situation.

The international community, especially the UN, is only effective when all is quiet.