Poll shows majority of Americans disapprove of Trump-led Iran war

A Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted July 24-26 among 1,246 U.S. adults found that 33 percent approve of the war in Iran launched by President Donald Trump, while 62 percent disapprove. Support has remained below 40 percent since the conflict began, contrasting with early public backing for the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, which exceeded 70 percent and 90 percent respectively.

Respondents said the administration has not clearly explained the war’s objectives. "It’s not clear why we started a war with them. I have no idea," Republican voter Alex Womack told Reuters. The president has offered multiple rationales, including destabilizing Iran’s missile program and encouraging regime change.

The poll also indicated growing political ramifications. Independent voters, 67 percent of whom disapprove of the war, favor Democratic congressional candidates 36 percent to 20 percent and express more confidence in Democrats on economic issues. Republican strategist Alex Conant said the conflict adds pressure to the party’s electoral prospects.

The conflict has coincided with rising fuel prices, with the national average for gasoline climbing to just over $4 per gallon from about $3 before the war. The White House maintains the price increase is temporary, while Republican advisers warn it could hurt the administration’s standing.

Four U.S. service members were killed in recent attacks in Jordan and Iraq, bringing the American death toll to 18 since the campaign began on Feb. 28. President Trump pledged retaliation on his Truth Social platform.

White House spokeswoman Olivia Wales said the administration’s priority is “having a Commander in Chief who takes bold action to keep them safe,” referring to the president’s handling of the conflict.