June 5, 2012

Feinstein Statement on National Security Leaks

Washington—Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, today released the following statement regarding recent leaks of sensitive national security information:

“I am deeply disturbed by the continuing leaks of classified information to the media, most recently regarding alleged cyber efforts targeting Iran’s nuclear program.

Today I sent a classified letter to the president outlining my deep concerns about the release of this information. I made it clear that disclosures of this type endanger American lives and undermine America’s national security.

I have spoken with Senator Carl Levin, chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, about the possibility of a joint hearing to investigate these leaks.

The Intelligence Committee will soon mark up the FY13 Intelligence Authorization Bill, and it is my intention to include provisions requiring:

• A timely notification of authorized disclosures and the rationale for those disclosures;
   
• More forceful investigations of unauthorized disclosures;
   
• Additional authorities and resources for the U.S. government to identify and prosecute those who violate various federal laws and non-disclosure agreements by revealing highly classified information.

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