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ChatGPT failed to OCR the image, and failed to transcribe the audio. “No module available right now…”. Grok just did it, but retained too many OCR errors. I ultimately OCRed it locally.
edit:
Deepseek V3 0324 is so helpful.. 😉
Summary of Houthi PC Small Group Discussion
Key Details:
- Group: 19-member Houthi coordination group.
- Purpose: Discussing U.S. military action against the Houthis in Yemen following a Sit Room meeting.
- Timeline: Urgent 72-hour coordination, with debate over whether to strike immediately or delay.
Key Points & Debate:
- Initial Coordination:
- Michael Waltz establishes the group for rapid decision-making.
- Deputies tasked with assembling teams for action items.
- POTUS provided guidance, with taskings sent via secure channels.
- Concerns Over Timing & Messaging:
- Waltz: Warns that the public may not understand the economic stakes (3% U.S. trade, 40% European trade via Suez). Suggests delaying to build messaging and assess economic risks.
- Joe Kent (DNI): No urgent timeline; same options would exist in a month.
- CIA (John Ratcliffe): Supports delay for better intel on Houthi leadership.
- Arguments for Immediate Action:
- Pete Hegseth (VP team): Focus on restoring freedom of navigation and deterrence. Warns against leaks or Israel acting first.
- JD Vance: Supports action but emphasizes tight messaging and minimizing risks to Saudi oil facilities.
- SM: Stresses need to extract economic concessions from Europe for U.S. efforts.
- Final Decision & Execution:
- Hegseth confirms strike timeline (F-18s, drones, Tomahawks).
- First strike successful: Target (Houthi missile leader) eliminated in a collapsed building.
- CENTCOM praised for execution.
Outcome:
- The U.S. proceeded with strikes, achieving initial objectives.
- Debate highlighted tensions over European reliance on U.S. defense and economic risks.
- Strong emphasis on messaging (blaming Biden’s prior failures and Iran’s role) and deterrence.
Final Note: Disappearing messages set to 4 weeks post-operation.
