Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook as the label directs; drain.
Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes; cook, stirring, until the garlic is slightly softened, about 1 minute. Drain the tomatoes, reserving 1/2 cup juice; crush the tomatoes with your hands and set aside. Add the tomato juice and bay leaves to the skillet. Cook, stirring, until slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.
Add the clam juice and 1/4 teaspoon salt and cook until the liquid evaporates slightly, about 2 minutes. Add the crushed tomatoes and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat to medium low and simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, about 12 minutes.
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