The Defense Department inspector general has announced plans to investigate the mishandling of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's recent secretive hospitalization. The probe will focus on the roles, processes, procedures, responsibilities, and actions related to Austin's hospitalization, according to a memo released by the inspector general.

Criticism has been directed at the Pentagon for its lack of transparency surrounding the information regarding Austin's hospitalization. The secretary was revealed to have been hospitalized due to complications resulting from prostate cancer treatment, a fact that was not promptly communicated to top Pentagon officials and the White House, leading to a communication lapse lasting days.

The inspector general's investigation may expand in scope as it progresses, potentially involving additional offices and personnel who might possess relevant information. This development has been welcomed by Sen. Roger Wicker, the ranking Republican in the Senate Armed Services Committee, who expressed relief that the investigation will not be conducted by individuals involved in the communication lapse.

During a news conference, Wicker emphasized that the issue at hand is not partisan and stressed the importance of learning from the incident to prevent its recurrence in the future. He called for a public hearing with Secretary Austin but has not called for his resignation.

Members of the committee, including Nebraska Republican Sen. Deb Fischer, have raised concerns about the potential risks to national security caused by Austin's extended absence. Fischer cited scenarios such as a Houthi drone attack or a terrorist attack on US soil, highlighting the importance of the secretary of defense being readily available to respond in times of crisis.

The ordeal surrounding Austin's hospitalization has triggered questions about the level of communication between Austin and President Joe Biden. Wicker suggested that a potential hearing would address this matter, exploring the extent to which Austin is involved in crucial discussions on strategy and tactics.

The investigation into the mishandling of the defense secretary's hospitalization comes amid calls for Austin's resignation and demands for answers regarding who knew about his condition and when. The White House has asserted that the Pentagon failed to provide relevant information about Austin's situation, thereby deflecting blame onto the Department of Defense. Meanwhile, Austin remains hospitalized at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, maintaining communication with his senior staff and overseeing day-to-day operations.