Pentagon absolves itself after Austin's hospitalization

WASHINGTON — An internal review blames privacy restrictions and staff hesitancy for the Pentagon's failure last month to quickly notify the president and other senior leaders about Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's hospitalization for complications from prostate cancer surgery.

The review, which was carried out by Austin's subordinates, largely absolves anyone of wrongdoing for the secrecy surrounding his hospitalization, which included several days in the intensive care unit. And it says flatly there was "no indication of ill intent or an attempt to obfuscate".

Instead, the 30-day examination of the lapse — which angered the White House and members of Congress — says procedures must be improved and information shared better when the defense secretary has to transfer decision-making authorities to the deputy.