In a recent development, new reports confirm that Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was admitted to the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and spent several days in the intensive care unit. However, Austin is now recovering and has resumed his full duties as of last night, according to sources.

The Pentagon press secretary, Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, revealed on Friday that Austin's hospitalization was a result of complications from an elective medical procedure. While it remains unclear when the procedure took place or what it entailed, Austin's health situation required him to be under intensive care for four days.

During Austin's absence from New Year's Day until yesterday, Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks temporarily assumed his duties. Austin's hospitalization and the subsequent sharing of responsibilities had not been made public until last night, prompting criticism from the Pentagon Press Association (PPA) and journalist Lara Seligman.

Seligman, a reporter for Politico, quoted Ryder as stating that the delayed disclosure was due to the evolving nature of the situation, taking into consideration medical and personal privacy concerns. However, the PPA expressed "significant concern" in a letter addressed to Ryder and Assistant to the Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs Chris Meagher. The organization deemed the delayed information release an "outrage" and claimed that it did not meet the usual standards for transparency when high-ranking officials undergo medical procedures.

The exact details surrounding Austin's health condition and his current status in the hospital remain undisclosed. Seligman's report mentions that Austin remained hospitalized on Saturday, but there is no update on his expected discharge date.

As the first African American defense secretary in U.S. history, Austin's hospitalization has garnered additional attention. Nevertheless, the focus remains on his recovery and resumption of duties, ensuring stability within the Defense Department.

The American public can now be reassured that Secretary Austin is recuperating and has taken up his responsibilities once again. As more information becomes available, it will be shared with the public to uphold transparency and address any concerns regarding the health and well-being of senior administration officials.