National security leaks cost lives: Obama
May 17, 2013 03:02
US President Barack Obama has warned that national security leaks to the news media could cost lives, defending his administration's pursuit of those who reveal classified information.
But Obama said it was important to find a balance between security and press freedom, as he addressed the furor triggered by the Justice Department's secret seizure of the phone records of reporters at the Associated Press.
"Leaks related to national security can put people at risk," Obama told reporters at the White House, as he met Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
"They can put men and women in uniform that I've sent into the battlefield at risk. They can put some of our intelligence officers who are in various dangerous situations that are easily compromised at risk.
"I make no apologies, and I don't think the American people would expect me, as commander in chief, not to be concerned about information that might compromise their missions or might get them killed."
But Obama added that "we also live in a democracy where a free press, free expression and the open flow of information helps hold me accountable, helps hold our government accountable and helps our democracy function."
TOP STORIES
© 2024 Rediff.com - Investor Information - Advertise with us - Disclaimer - Privacy Policy - Feedback - About us - Terms of use - Grievances