In a surprising turn of events, it has been revealed that top Pentagon officials, including Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks, were unaware of Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin's hospitalization until three days after he was admitted. The lack of transparency surrounding Austin's condition has raised concerns among senior national security officials and the White House.

The revelation came after it was reported that President Joe Biden himself was not aware of Austin's hospitalization until three days into his stay at Walter Reed medical center. Secretary of State Antony Blinken also stated that he had not been informed of Austin's hospitalization, although he expressed his support and wished him a speedy recovery.

According to Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, Austin transferred certain operational responsibilities to Hicks on January 2, the day after he was admitted to the hospital. However, Hicks, who was on vacation in Puerto Rico at the time, was not informed of Austin's hospitalization until January 4.

The delayed disclosure of Austin's hospitalization has left many Pentagon officials frustrated and questioning why they were kept in the dark. Some officials have even raised concerns of a possible "cover-up." However, Ryder stated that it is not uncommon for secretaries to transfer certain responsibilities without providing a specific reason.

Despite the lack of transparency, Austin has no plans to resign over the episode, according to Ryder. The White House has reiterated its full confidence in Austin, with President Biden expressing his support during a "cordial" conversation with the defense secretary.

The nature of Austin's medical condition remains a mystery to many senior officials at the White House. However, it is unlikely to impact Biden's favorable view of him, as their relationship has been characterized by mutual respect and Austin's personal friendship with Biden's late son Beau.

The Pentagon's handling of Austin's hospitalization is in stark contrast to how other cabinet members have handled health-related issues in the past. The Department of Justice, for example, released a detailed statement regarding Attorney General Merrick Garland's surgery, whereas Austin himself provided information about his Covid-19 diagnosis in a statement last year.

Questions linger as to why Austin and his team went to great lengths to keep his condition a secret. The Defense Department's choice to withhold information has drawn criticism, with experts highlighting the importance of transparency, especially in a high-profile position like the Secretary of Defense.

The secretary's hospitalization and the ensuing lack of transparency have raised concerns about the Pentagon's communication practices. As Austin remains in the hospital, he has expressed his commitment to improving transparency and addressing media concerns. The defense community and the public will be closely watching for updates on his recovery and the Pentagon's efforts to enhance transparency moving forward.