The Department of Defense Inspector General (IG) has initiated an investigation into the Department's handling of Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin's recent hospitalization. The highly-criticized incidents surrounding Austin's health issues have raised concerns about timely notifications and the effective transition of authorities during senior leadership's unavailability.

According to a memo issued by Robert Storch, the objective of the review is to assess the roles, processes, procedures, responsibilities, and actions pertaining to Austin's hospitalization between December 2023 and January 2024. The IG aims to determine whether the Department's policies and procedures are adequate for ensuring timely and appropriate notifications in case of health-related unavailability of senior leaders.

Austin's hospitalization commenced on December 22, 2023, when he was admitted to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center for a prostatectomy procedure. This minimally invasive surgical intervention was intended to treat and cure his prostate cancer. However, on January 1, 2024, Austin was readmitted to Walter Reed due to a urinary tract infection, accompanied by severe abdominal, hip, and leg pain. During this time, the White House was reportedly not notified, leading to questions and prompting a review of Cabinet protocols for delegating authority.

In response to the IG investigation, Pentagon press secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder confirmed that Secretary Austin is currently hospitalized at Walter Reed and remains in good condition. Ryder stated that Austin is in contact with his senior staff and has full access to secure communications, allowing him to monitor the Department's day-to-day operations. The date of his release from the hospital is yet to be determined, and daily updates will be provided accordingly.

The IG's memo and the ongoing investigation coincide with the first House Democrat, Rep. Chris Deluzio of Pennsylvania, calling for Austin's resignation. The controversies surrounding Austin's hospitalization have sparked further debate and scrutiny within the political arena.

This news report includes contributions from Fox News' Liz Friden, Bradford Betz, and Houston Keene, as they have played a part in the coverage of this story.