[b_davis_]

what you need is a document called a "Security Classification Guide". there will be a unique version for the specific mission / command that was running the attack against the Houthi's, and there will be one for the SecDef office. this document describes the type of information that is classified, who decides if it is not classified any more, and to some extent, the why.

'secret' means disclosure will 'damage the national security.

'top secret means disclosure will 'cause exceptionally grave damage to the national security'.

political discussions about dealing with world events is probably 'top secret', especially during the deliberation stage. operational information like 'TOT is 1pm local, 4 F18's with LGB's are inbound' is probably considered Secret until the crews return; in which case it is probably considered lower in criticality.