"Any time you have a situation in which you are calling for more time rather than calling for Iraq to immediately comply, it plays into the hands of Saddam Hussein"

This quote by Condoleezza Rice is describing the scenario in Iraq in 2003. She is saying that if the worldwide neighborhood is calling for more time instead of requiring instant compliance from Iraq, it will provide Saddam Hussein more time to continue his oppressive rule. Rice is cautioning that if the international neighborhood does not take a firm stance and demand instant compliance, it will only serve to strengthen Saddam Hussein's power. She is stressing the importance of taking a strong position and not permitting Saddam Hussein to gain more time to continue his oppressive rule. By calling for more time, the international community is basically giving Saddam Hussein a chance to more entrench his power and continue his oppressive guideline. Rice is cautioning that if the global community does not take a firm position and demand instant compliance, it will just serve to enhance Saddam Hussein's power.