An internal review conducted by the Pentagon has identified privacy restrictions and staff hesitancy as key factors contributing to the delayed notification of President and other senior leaders about Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's hospitalization last month. The review, carried out by Austin's subordinates, has largely cleared individuals of any wrongdoing in relation to the secrecy surrounding Austin's hospitalization due to complications following prostate cancer surgery.
The report emphasizes the need for improved procedures and better information sharing when the Defense Secretary delegates decision-making authority to his deputy. This comes as Austin is set to testify this week on Capitol Hill.
