In a recent development, Republicans, including former Vice President Mike Pence, have expressed their displeasure over Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's lack of transparency regarding his hospitalization. It has been revealed that Austin was admitted to the hospital on New Year's Day due to complications from a surgery, but President Joe Biden was not informed until January 4, when national security adviser Jake Sullivan notified him in the evening.

Pence, while wishing Austin well, criticized his actions as "totally unacceptable" and a "dereliction of duty." Sen. Roger Wicker, the highest-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, deemed the withholding of information about Austin's hospitalization as "unacceptable."

The lack of transparency surrounding Austin's hospitalization has raised concerns among Republicans and eroded trust in the Biden Administration. Speaking on "Fox News Sunday," Republican Sen. James Lankford described the lack of disclosure as "shocking" and emphasized that it was not just Austin's absence that was problematic, but also the fact that key branches of government were unaware of the situation.

However, not all voices were critical of Austin. Rep. Jim Clyburn, assistant Democratic leader in the House, defended Austin, calling him a "stand-up guy" and a "great defense secretary." Clyburn highlighted the importance of respecting individuals' medical privacy rights and expressed confidence that Austin would improve his communication going forward.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that he was not aware of Austin's medical issue at the time, but praised Austin as an extraordinary leader. Blinken expressed his eagerness to see Austin fully recovered and working together in the coming year.

Austin, a vital member of the Biden administration, holds a crucial role in national security, particularly as tensions rise in the Middle East. Significantly, Austin participated in a New Year's Day call with President Biden to discuss the escalating situation in the Red Sea before his hospitalization. It remains unclear whether the call occurred before or after Austin's admission.

During Austin's hospitalization, the U.S. carried out a strike in Baghdad against a pro-Iran militia commander. It was revealed that Austin had authorized the strike before being hospitalized.

Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks temporarily assumed Austin's duties while on vacation in Puerto Rico during his hospitalization. Austin has since resumed his full responsibilities and has spoken to President Biden, who expressed complete confidence in him.

In a statement, Austin thanked the medical staff at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center for their care and reassured the public of his recovery. He acknowledged media concerns about transparency and pledged to improve in the future but did not apologize for the delayed notification.

As the controversy surrounding Austin's hospitalization unfolds, it remains to be seen whether greater transparency and communication protocols will be established within the Defense Department.