Analysis-U.S. leaks show clash between 'need to know' vs 'need to share'

A mockup representation of classified U.S. military documents and a keyboard are seen in this illustration taken April 13, 2023. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The latest U.S. intelligence leak illustrates a paradox of spycraft: keeping secrets means limiting their distribution but protecting against dangers like another Sept. 11, 2001, attack means sharing them.

Balancing those twin demands is a key challenge for U.S. President Joe Biden as his administration seeks to prevent leaks while protecting U.S. security and ensuring allies fearful of exposure keep sharing intelligence.