What is the potential impact on national security due to unauthorized disclosure?

The potential impact on national security due to unauthorized disclosure is primarily associated with the risk of exposing sensitive operations or sources. When confidential information is disclosed without authorization, it can reveal critical intelligence operations, ongoing military activities, or the identities of informants and assets. This exposure compromises not only the immediate mission but can also have long-term repercussions, such as diminishing the effectiveness of intelligence agencies, eroding trust with allies, and potentially putting lives at risk. The integrity of national security relies heavily on maintaining confidentiality; thus, any breach can significantly threaten the safety and security of the nation.

In contrast, while strengthening international relations, having no impact if the information is not damaging, or achieving positive outcomes on public trust might seem plausible, these scenarios often overlook the inherent risks associated with unauthorized disclosures. The reality is that even seemingly benign information can have unforeseen consequences when it falls into the wrong hands, making the divulgence of sensitive data a grave concern for national security.