Can the U.N. handle Iraq?

LONDON -- Everyone wants the United Nations to play a greater role in Iraq -- the Americans included.

But is the U.N., as presently structured, capable of taking on such a role? Could it ever have the powers of cohesion and the muscle to address the ugly terrorism and guerrilla warfare that is plaguing Iraq's recovery? And does it even want to get more involved after the horrific murder of its top personnel in Baghdad?

The interests of all those currently within the American-led coalition, as well as the interests of some countries still pondering their contribution, would clearly be served by a higher U.N. profile. The Americans feel they are already carrying too much of the burden, and are reluctant to commit more troops, which would increase the targets available to forces resisting the U.S. occupation.