What’s really in a “diplomatic bag”?

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In the UK, it’s called a “diplomatic bag.” In the US, it’s a “diplomatic pouch.’’ But regardless of what you call it, it’s totally secure. These containers are used by diplomats to transport classified materials across country lines. Barbara Bodine, the former US ambassador to Yemen, has personal experience with this secret mail system. (Image: In this photo from circa the 1950s, a state department worker seals a diplomatic bag containing government correspondence which will be sent to US embassies all around the world. Credit: Three Lions/Getty Images)