Pentagon Report Critiques Austin's Hospital Secrecy

A Pentagon Inspector General report has determined that Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's secret hospitalizations for cancer treatment 'unnecessarily' increased risks to U.S. national security. The report highlights significant communication failures, as Austin did not inform senior officials, including Deputy Secretary Kathleen Hicks and the White House, about his medical condition or the transfer of his authority during critical times. Although no immediate adverse consequences to Department of Defense operations were reported, Inspector General Robert Storch emphasized that the lack of transparency compromised command and control during Austin's incapacitation. Austin, who sought to maintain his privacy, acknowledged the lapses and agreed to implement 20 recommended changes to improve readiness and transparency. The report underscores the importance of seamless operations within the Department of Defense in maintaining national security. Austin apologized for not properly notifying relevant parties during his hospital stays.