I think we are mixing things up too much there. Are you implying leaking classified material to the press as an anonymous source is somehow routine or OK? Might want to have a friendly talk with the security officer about that.

If not why even bring classication into it?

I'm not making any normative claim about leaking. That would be irresponsible.

I brought classification up because it's one of the most common reasons for sources being anonymous. Whether or not you think they should be talking to the press, they do, and the press affords them certain protections doing so.

It's a political talking point soundbite (a PROVEN FALSE one, at that), not classified material.

We don't know whether or not it's classified, but I think it's safe to assume that it either is or is being handled by people with classifications. That puts it firmly in the domain of "off the record or without my name, please."

I don't think it's been "proven" false. I don't think it's very likely, but that is a different question.

and strategic "leaks" and press plants are a cornerstone of media engineering by the state