Sep 17th 2010, 21:20:40
"The Global Defense Initiative (GDI) is an open organization dedicated to the protection of our members. As a member of GDI, you will receive the protection of GDI forces. No country more than twice your size or less than half your size will be able to go to attack you without first formally declaring war. However, we require your assistance in return. You will be required to pay $3 per acre of land you own to the GDI fund as long as you are with us. In addition, you will not be allowed to commit offensive acts against countries greater than twice your size or smaller than half your size. You cannot join the GDI unless you have not made an attack for at least 18 hours.
After the minimum membership, you may leave us at any time. However, once you do, you will not be readmitted for 72 hours."
It does not tell you that it's 72 hours until after you join GDI.