House Speaker Mike Johnson stated that the Gang of 8 congressional leaders were briefed earlier this week regarding the potential necessity of military action against Iran to protect American forces and citizens, learning in detail that President Donald Trump was considering strikes in the Middle East nation.
In a statement released early Saturday, Johnson wrote: “The Gang of 8 was briefed in detail earlier this week that military action may become necessary to protect American troops and American citizens in Iran.”
He said he received updates from Secretary of State Marco Rubio following the briefing and would remain in close contact with Trump and the Department of War as the situation, dubbed “Operation Epic Fury,” unfolds.
The “Gang of 8” refers to the eight top congressional leaders who receive classified intelligence briefings, especially on sensitive national security matters.
Johnson added that the strike comes as Iran faces consequences for what he described as decades of hostile actions. “Today, Iran is facing the severe consequences of its evil actions,” he wrote.
Johnson noted that Trump and his administration have pursued diplomatic avenues in response to Iran’s nuclear ambitions and support for terrorism. “President Trump and the administration have made every effort to pursue peaceful and diplomatic solutions in response to the Iranian regime’s sustained nuclear ambitions and development, terrorism, and the murder of Americans — and even their own people,” Johnson wrote.
Johnson accused Iran of continuing its nuclear program while backing terrorist groups, including Hamas and Hezbollah. “For decades, Iran has defiantly maintained its nuclear program while arming and funding Hamas, Hezbollah, and other internationally recognized terrorist organizations,” he wrote.
He further stated: “Iran and its proxies have menaced America and American lives, undermined our core national interests, systematically destabilized the Middle East, and threatened the security of the entire West.”
Johnson closed his statement by offering support for U.S. service members and allies involved in the operation. “We pray for the safety of our brave service members and our allies involved in Operation Epic Fury. May God bless them, and may God bless America.”
