Fact Check: Did Mike Johnson say 'Operation Epic Fury' is 'wrapping up'?

WASHINGTON, DC: Amid the ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran, speculation is swirling about when the war might end. Some unofficial reports online suggest the campaign could last four to five weeks or longer as key military objectives remain unfinished. In the midst of this chatter, a viral claim has emerged that Mike Johnson said Operation Epic Fury is 'wrapping up.' Let’s fact-check this claim.

Claim: Mike Johnson says 'Operation Epic Fury' is wrapping up

A claim went viral on X, with many conservative media outlets sharing posts that Mike Johnson said Operation Epic Fury is 'wrapping up.'

An X user, @acyn, shared a video showing a reporter asking Johnson, “You said a few weeks ago we aren't at war with Iran. Still your position?" Johnson replied, “We're wrapping up Operation Epic Fury is what I think and I think it will be done in short order. It will be right on schedule."

The video quickly gained attention, reaching over 50K views and sparking widespread discussion. Comments included statements like, “No one is capable of telling the truth,” “Oh boy, wrong again,” and “They are all so hypocritical.”

Fact Check: Yes, Mike Johnson did say that 'Operation Epic Fury' is wrapping up

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson has been reported saying that 'Operation Epic Fury' is “wrapping up” and nearing its end. Multiple news outlets covered his remarks, noting that he believes the mission is almost finished and should conclude soon. 

According to a video shared by Fox News, Johnson made these comments during a press conference at George Bush Airport in Houston, going live to say the operation is “almost done” and “wrapping up.” Therefore, the claim is true.

At the US Capitol on Wednesday, March 25, Johnson added, “The buildup of troops is very different than 'on the ground.' We don't have boots on the ground. I don't think that's the intention, but I think Iran should watch that buildup, and they need to take note of that."

He also said the operation’s objectives have been met, but access to the Strait of Hormuz still needs to be addressed. Johnson called this a “giant project” that will require help from international partners.

Johnson concluded that the operation will be “done in short order” and “right on schedule,” though no official timeline has ever been confirmed.

UN Secretary‑General Antonio Guterres calls for an end to the war with Iran

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres again called for an end to the war with Iran on Wednesday, March 25 highlighting the effects of the Strait of Hormuz closure, which he said is blocking the movement of oil, gas, and fertilizer during the crucial global planting season.

Guterres wrote on social media, “Across the region & beyond, civilians are enduring serious harm & living under profound insecurity. The @UN is working to minimize the consequences of the war. And the best way to minimize those consequences is clear: End the war – immediately."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.