Meaning: The quote you provided is from Hans Blix, a Swedish diplomat who is best known for his role as the head of the United Nations Monitoring, Verification and Inspection Commission (UNMOVIC), which was responsible for assessing Iraq’s compliance with UN Security Council resolutions regarding its weapons programs. The quote reflects Blix's perspective on the complexities involved in making decisions about military action, particularly in relation to public opinion and the passage of time.

In this quote, Blix is emphasizing the importance of considering public opinion when contemplating military action. He suggests that if public opinion supports military action at a certain point in time, that support may diminish if action is delayed. This underscores the dynamic nature of public sentiment and the potential impact of timing on the perceived legitimacy of military interventions.

Blix's reference to impatience and other factors highlights the multifaceted nature of the decision-making process regarding military action. Impatience can be a significant factor in political and public discourse, especially in situations where there is a perceived need for swift and decisive action. However, Blix also alludes to the existence of additional complexities that must be taken into account when assessing the viability and desirability of military action.

One interpretation of Blix's statement is that the decision to engage in military action should not be rushed or made solely in response to immediate pressures or public sentiment. Instead, it should be informed by a comprehensive understanding of the situation, including the potential consequences of both action and inaction. Blix's emphasis on the potential fluctuation of public opinion over time suggests a need for careful consideration of the long-term implications of military interventions.

Blix's perspective on the relationship between public opinion and military action is particularly relevant in the context of democratic societies where public sentiment can play a crucial role in shaping government policies and decisions. The quote underscores the need for policymakers to engage with the public, communicate the complexities of the issues at hand, and consider the potential impact of their decisions on public opinion.

In the context of international relations and diplomacy, Blix's quote also speaks to the importance of perceived legitimacy and the role of public opinion in shaping the international community's response to potential military interventions. The dynamics of public opinion, both domestically and internationally, can influence the diplomatic landscape and the willingness of other nations to support or oppose military actions.

Overall, Blix's quote highlights the nuanced interplay between public opinion, timing, and other factors in the decision-making process regarding military action. It serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges inherent in navigating the intersection of public sentiment, political exigencies, and the potential consequences of military interventions. By acknowledging the multifaceted nature of these considerations, Blix's quote prompts reflection on the complexities of decision-making in the realm of international relations and military affairs.