In a surprising turn of events, it has been revealed that President Biden was not initially aware of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's hospitalization. Austin was admitted to Walter Reed Medical Center earlier this week after undergoing an elective medical procedure that led to complications. The Pentagon did not disclose this information publicly until four days later, raising questions about transparency and communication within the administration.
Reports indicate that National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan was first informed about Austin's hospitalization on Thursday afternoon. He then briefed President Biden on the matter later that same day. The delay in notifying the President has sparked concerns, considering the critical timing of ongoing conflicts in Israel and Ukraine, among other pressing global issues.