He quickly wrote on a blank order form.
"Issue a sternly worded order, number... use Ministry of Defense order number 174. Title: 'Notice on the Immediate Cessation of Unauthorized Military Actions.' Content: General Samir is required to immediately stop all military actions not approved by the Ministry of Defense, withdraw all troops beyond the defensive zone, and submit a written explanation within 24 hours."
He looked up at Amir: "How stern should the tone be? Use phrases like 'otherwise face disciplinary action,' but don't specify what the action is. Vague, always vague."
"Cc the American Embassy?"
"Of course. Send it through secure channels, then have the press office 'accidentally' leak it to the Al Jazeera correspondent in Baghdad."
