This statement is a lot more than just propaganda. The words the SecDef used have a specific meaning within the defense establishment. They are the equivalent of the phrase ‘intolerable provocation’ in diplomatic parlance. Normally such a remark would be a clear signal to all the services to begin operation execution planning immediately. Only the phrase ‘war warning’ or ‘operational execution alert’ are closer to directing the armed services to be ready to go into combat operations immediately upon command.
Good point, but who will be military be directed against?