Johnson reveals 'Gang of Eight' was briefed that Iran action 'may become necessary'
WASHINGTON, DC: House Speaker Mike Johnson revealed on Saturday, February 28, that the "Gang of Eight," the top bipartisan leaders of the House, Senate, and intelligence committees, received a detailed briefing earlier this week regarding the potential for military operations in Iran.
The briefing warned that kinetic action against the Iranian regime might "become necessary" to safeguard American troops and citizens as diplomatic channels were exhausted.
Asserting that the regime was finally "facing the severe consequences of its evil actions." The speaker stated that President Trump and the current administration had made "every effort" to avoid conflict by pursuing peaceful and diplomatic resolutions before authorizing force.
According to Johnson, the decision to launch 'Operation Epic Fury' followed decades of Iranian defiance regarding its nuclear program and its role in arming radical organizations.
He emphasized that these actions had systematically destabilized the Middle East and directly threatened the security of the entire West.
Protecting American lives and interests
Speaker Johnson highlighted that the Iranian regime and its proxies had long menaced American lives and undermined core national interests.
The speaker noted that Iran's history of violence extended beyond the murder of Americans to include the slaughter of its own people.
The administration’s shift to military action was framed as a protective measure for US troops and citizens abroad.
Johnson remains in close contact with both the president and the Department of War as combat operations continue to unfold in the region.
Intelligence briefings preceded military strike
The speaker revealed that the "Gang of Eight," the top lawmakers from both parties in leadership and intelligence roles, received a detailed briefing earlier this week.
Following those sessions, Johnson received further updates from Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
These communications ensured that top congressional leadership was informed of the comprehensive strategy being utilized before the first missiles were launched.
National security and Western defense
The offensive aimed to thwart the Ayatollahs' desire for nuclear weapons while destroying their naval and mayhem capabilities.
Johnson argued that without this intervention, Iran would have continued its apocalyptic vision alongside other adversarial dictators.
He concluded his remarks with a prayer for the safety of the brave servicemembers and allies involved in the ongoing mission.
