What is a potential defense against a claim of libel?

Proving the statement was true is a foundational defense against a claim of libel. In libel cases, the plaintiff must demonstrate that the published statement is false and damaging to their reputation. If the defendant can establish that the statement in question is true, it negates the claim of falsehood, which is a required element of a libel case. Truth provides a robust defense because the law recognizes that a true statement, no matter how harmful, does not constitute libel. This principle supports free expression and ensures individuals are not penalized for stating facts, regardless of how they might affect someone's reputation.

The other options, while related to various aspects of defamation laws, do not serve as effective defenses against a libel claim in the same way that proving the statement's truth does.