U.N.: Iran turns away inspectors

Does this really surprise anyone? If the U.N. is involved then there will be failure!

VIENNA, Austria (AP) -- Iran has turned away U.N. inspectors wanting to examine its underground nuclear site in an apparent violation of the Nonproliferation Treaty, diplomats and U.N. officials said Monday.The

officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the confidentiality of the information, told The Associated Press that Iran's unprecedented refusal to allow access to the facility at Natanz could seriously hamper international efforts to ensure that Tehran is not trying to make nuclear weapons.The

revelation came on the eve of Iran's self-imposed August 22 deadline to respond to a Western incentives package for it to roll back its disputed nuclear program.

The United Nations has given Tehran until the end of August to suspend uranium enrichment.Earlier

Monday, Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said Monday that Tehran will continue to pursue nuclear technology, state television reported.The

supreme leader's remarks also came the day after Iran's armed forces tested surface-to-surface missiles Sunday in the second stage of war games near its border with Iraq. (Full story)

Here are some facts:

Total U.S. Contributions to the UN System,
Both Assessed and Voluntary -
Estimated at $3.0 Billion

Humanitarian/Human Rights - 39%
Environment - 2%
Development - 8%
Weapons of Mass Destruction - 3%
UN Regular Budget - 9%
UN Peacekeeping - 31%
Open Markets - 4%
Health - 4%

*Figures are based on FY 2002, excluding U.S. arrears payment.
Percentages reflect how U.S. dollars are divided within the UN system.

The United States is a generous supporter of key UN programs, funding: of the World Food Program budget to help feed 72 million people in 82 countries.*17.1% of the United Nations Children’s Fund budget to feed, vaccinate, educate and protect children in 162 countries.*14.1% of the United Nations Development Program core budget to eradicate poverty and encourage democratic governance.*25.8% of the International Atomic Energy Agency budget to ensure safe and peaceful application of nuclear energy and prevent the illicit use of nuclear material for weapons.**22% of the World Health Organization core budget as well as significant voluntary resources, helping to prevent and control epidemics and to improve standards of health.**25% of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees budget to help protect refugees and facilitate their return home or re-settlement in another country.*25% of the International Civil Aviation Organization budget to ensure safe, efficient and economical air travel.*** These programs operate strictly on voluntary contributions.
** These programs operate on a combination of assessed and voluntary contributions.

With all the U.N. is not doing would we be better off with a total overhaul of the United Nations?