"Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin Hospitalized Due to Post-Surgery Complications"

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has been hospitalized at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center since Monday due to complications from a minor elective medical procedure. The Pentagon announced his recovery and expected return to full duties on Friday night. The nature of the complications and the procedure have not been disclosed due to privacy concerns. Deputy Secretary of Defense was ready to assume responsibilities if needed, but Austin did not delegate his authority, having previously authorized a drone strike before his hospitalization.