JODL: Only the last sentence need be read.
DR. EXNER: Please read it.
JODL: “All warships and merchant vessels under the U.S.A. flag, as well as aircraft, are excepted from the prohibition to sail or take off.”
DR. EXNER: And that is the last sentence at the bottom of Page 98. The paragraph speaks of prohibiting warships, merchant vessels, aircraft, et cetera, from leaving port, with the exception of the Americans.
JODL: And so, in all the war measures of the Naval Operations Staff, America was granted an exceptional position for a long time.
DR. EXNER: Before Japan’s attack on America, did you have any official dealings with Japanese officers?
JODL: No, not before.
DR. EXNER: None at all?
JODL: No.
DR. EXNER: Did you expect the attack on Pearl Harbor?