Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has been released from the hospital after a two-week stay to treat complications from surgery for prostate cancer that he had kept secret from President Joe Biden and other senior administration leaders. Austin's doctors at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center have stated that his prognosis is “excellent” and that he has been progressing well throughout his stay.

Austin, 70, was admitted to the hospital on December 22 and underwent surgery to treat the cancer, which had been detected earlier in the month during a routine screening. However, a week later, he developed an infection and was hospitalized again on January 1, eventually being admitted to the intensive care unit. During his hospitalization, Austin underwent medical tests and received treatment for lingering leg pain.

The lack of transparency regarding Austin's hospitalization has sparked reviews within the administration and the Defense Department on procedures for notifying the White House and others if a Cabinet member is unable to perform their duties. The White House chief of staff has also ordered Cabinet members to notify his office if they are unable to carry out their responsibilities.

President Biden has expressed his confidence in Austin despite being unaware of his hospitalization until January 4 and the cancer diagnosis until January 9. Biden has called Austin's failure to inform him a lapse in judgment. However, some members of Congress, both Democrats and Republicans, have criticized Austin's secrecy and called for his resignation. Rep. Mike Rogers, chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, has opened a formal inquiry into the matter.

During his hospital stay, Austin continued to work remotely, juggling calls with senior military leaders and participating in White House meetings. The U.S. also launched military strikes on the Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen during this time. It remains uncertain when Austin will return to his office in the Pentagon and how his cancer treatment will impact his job and public engagements going forward. Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks has been assuming some of his day-to-day duties as he recovers.

Austin's release from the hospital comes after the Pentagon issued a statement saying that he will recuperate and perform his duties remotely before returning full-time to the Pentagon. His doctors have stated that the cancer was caught early and that his prognosis is excellent. However, they also mentioned that he may need additional care, including physical therapy.

The incident has raised concerns among defense experts and congressional Republicans who argue that the U.S. faced attacks in the Middle East while Austin was hospitalized. Some critics have accused him of a "shocking lack of judgment" and called for his resignation. However, the White House has affirmed its support for Austin, and he has taken responsibility for the communication breakdown and promised to "do better." The Pentagon has ordered a review of the incident, and the White House is reevaluating its procedures for similar situations in the future.