USA (Washington Insider Magazine)—Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who was hospitalized on January 1, transferred certain operational responsibilities to Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks on Tuesday, although she was on vacation in Puerto Rico at the time. Hicks was not informed of Austin’s hospitalization until Thursday, three days after his admission, prompting concerns about the Pentagon’s communication protocols.
Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder clarified that the transfer of responsibilities is not unusual and does not primarily relate to health issues. Despite being on vacation, Hicks prepared to handle Austin’s duties, including drafting a public statement and engaging with Congress.
Austin underwent an elective procedure on December 22, returning home the next day, but was readmitted due to severe pain and spent four days in the ICU. He has since been reported to be recovering well, although no release date has been provided.
The lack of transparency surrounding Austin’s condition drew criticism from lawmakers and senior officials, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who was also unaware of the situation. Austin acknowledged the need for better communication and accepted responsibility for the oversight, while Ryder noted that Austin’s chief of staff was unable to notify others due to illness.
As Congress prepares to return from recess, lawmakers are expected to raise questions regarding the Defense Department’s handling of the situation, with Senators Tom Cotton and Roger Wicker calling for immediate accountability.
The context of Austin’s hospitalization includes rising tensions in the Middle East, with the U.S. conducting a controversial airstrike during his recovery, and ongoing attacks on American bases in the region.
