Across Quote by Elliott Abrams
“In most cases, cables are marked secret not because the U.S. requires it but because those speaking to us - the foreign leaders across the table - do. They are not keeping secrets from us, but from two other groups: their enemies and their subjects.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Foreign Policy Insights, Elliott Abrams, 2018
Intelligence markings protect not only the U.S. but also foreign leaders and their subjects from each other.
In simple terms: Secrets protect multiple parties.
Key Takeaway
Consider broader impacts before classifying.
Themes
secrecy
diplomacy
security
Mood
analytical
cautious
Type
political
informative
When to use this quote
- government negotiations
- intelligence sharing
- policy drafting
- media reporting
Key Concepts
Information control
strategic communication
Questions to Reflect On
- Who benefits from secrecy?
- When should information be shared?
A Different Perspective
Over‑classification can hinder transparency and accountability.
