Radio Atlantic

Classified, or Not Classified?

22 snips
Mar 27, 2025
Shane Harris, a staff writer at The Atlantic, dives into the intricacies of classified information and national security. He unpacks a controversial Signal chat revealing sensitive military plans related to Yemen, discussing the implications of such leaks. Harris highlights the administration's contradictions and delves into potential repercussions for officials involved in the breach. The conversation also covers international fallout and allies' skepticism, emphasizing the vulnerabilities faced by U.S. officials and the urgent need for improved security protocols.
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INSIGHT

Information Classification

  • Presumptively classified information, like military strike plans, was shared in a Signal chat.
  • The government's own guidelines suggest this information should be handled with more security.
ANECDOTE

Publishing the Texts

  • The Atlantic published the Signal chat texts after the administration denied the presence of classified information.
  • This decision aimed to demonstrate transparency and counter accusations of deception.
INSIGHT

Classification Levels

  • Information classification is based on potential damage from public release, ranging from secret to top secret.
  • Senior officials have classification authority, and the system guides information handling within the government.
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