Poll suggests only a quarter of Americans support attacks on Iran
Al Jazeera
March 2, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A recent poll conducted by Reuters-Ipsos revealed that only 25% of Americans approve of the U.S.-Israeli military strikes against Iran, which followed the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The poll, carried out between Saturday and Sunday, found widespread public skepticism about the conflict, with 43% disapproving and 29% undecided. This lack of enthusiasm could significantly impact how President Donald Trump and his administration proceed, especially as they navigate a politically charged environment ahead of the midterm elections.
Among Republicans, support for the strikes was stronger but not unanimous, with 55% approving and 13% disapproving. However, nearly half of all respondents—42%—indicated that they would be less likely to support the operation if it resulted in U.S. troop casualties. Democrats showed overwhelming opposition, with 74% disapproving and only 7% supporting the strikes. This stark division highlights a growing partisan divide over Trump’s foreign policy decisions.
The poll also reflects broader concerns about the conflict’s potential impact on gas prices and oil supplies, with 45% of respondents expressing reluctance to support the campaign if prices rise. The war has already disrupted trade routes in the Middle East, with several companies halting shipments in the region. This economic uncertainty, combined with the human toll—over 200 deaths in Iran alone—underscores public unease about the ongoing violence.
As the U.S. and its allies escalate their involvement in the Middle East, the lack of public enthusiasm for the conflict could complicate Trump’s “America First” agenda. Many voters, particularly conservatives, remain wary of prolonged military engagement, as evidenced by the poll’s findings. The outcome of this unfolding crisis will likely shape public sentiment heading into the midterm elections, where control of Congress hangs in the balance.
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 3/2/2026