House Speaker Mike Johnson defends Trump’s Iran war, claims lying is cultural trait

During a press briefing, House Speaker Mike Johnson defended President Donald Trump’s decision to join Israel in a war against Iran, describing the Iranian leadership as untrustworthy and even implying that dishonesty is embedded in their religion. He praised Trump’s leadership, calling his hands “steady,” and argued the conflict was necessary because Iran was close to acquiring a nuclear weapon, a claim that conflicts with earlier statements from former intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard.

Johnson noted that public sentiment is turning against the war, citing a University of Massachusetts poll where 54 percent of Americans disapprove, a factor that could jeopardize Republican control of Congress in November. He highlighted the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, rising oil prices, and inflation as economic fallout, and called on NATO allies and regional Arab states to assist in reopening the passage. While acknowledging that the United States has managed to move some oil through the strait, Johnson emphasized the need for broader international involvement to ensure market stability.