US President Joe Biden expressed his continued confidence in Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Friday, despite criticizing him for not informing the White House about his ongoing hospitalization. Austin has been hospitalized since January 1 due to complications from prostate cancer treatment, but he did not disclose this information to the White House or Congress until several days later. This delay has led to calls for his resignation and raised concerns about his involvement in national security matters.
When questioned about Austin’s failure to inform him, Biden acknowledged it as a lapse in judgment. However, he affirmed his confidence in the defense secretary when pressed further by reporters. The White House also confirmed that Austin has been working from his hospital bed, actively participating in discussions regarding the planned strikes against Yemen’s Iran-backed Huthi rebels.
National Security Council spokesman John Kirby emphasized that President Biden fully supports Austin and has faith in his leadership. Kirby highlighted Austin’s active engagement in national security issues, even while confined to a hospital bed. He commended Austin for effectively commanding and leading the forces involved in dangerous missions.
The Huthi rebels have escalated their drone and missile attacks on the Red Sea’s critical international route since the Gaza war began, disregarding warnings from the United States and other nations. Consequently, American and British forces conducted strikes against numerous targets in Yemen.
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