From Fortune:

1. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin hospitalized for complications following a medical procedure. It was not immediately disclosed to the public and raises questions about the Pentagon’s transparency in communicating his health status, given the sensitive security situation in the Middle East and Ukraine.

2. Austin’s expected recovery raises concerns over his ability to make key military decisions as Iranian-backed militias continue to attack U.S. bases in Iraq and Syria. The U.S. is also leading efforts to deter attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea and supplying weapons to Ukraine.

3. Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks was prepared to act on behalf of Austin if needed, and the Pentagon declined to disclose more information about his medical condition or procedure. Austin’s 41-year military career includes retirement as a four-star Army general in 2016.



Read more: Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin hospitalized for 5 days, Pentagon says