A comprehensive Reuters/Ipsos opinion survey, conducted at the onset of joint U.S.-Israeli military operations against Iran, reveals deep-seated disapproval among the American public and significant concerns over President Donald Trump’s propensity for military engagement. The data indicates a nation grappling with the immediate repercussions of an escalating international conflict.
The poll results demonstrate that 43% of all American respondents explicitly disapprove of the offensive strikes on Iran, with only 27% expressing approval. A substantial 30% remained undecided or declined to answer, highlighting widespread uncertainty. Political affiliation proved to be a critical divider; an overwhelming 74% of Democratic voters denounced the attacks, contrasted by a mere 13% disapproval among Republican respondents.
Further scrutiny of presidential authority shows 56% of all Americans believe President Trump is excessively willing to deploy military force. This sentiment is acutely polarized, skyrocketing to 87% among Democrats while resting at 23% within his Republican base. Conversely, 73% of Republicans affirmed their belief that the President’s application of force is ‘about right.’
This public division stands in stark contrast to President Trump’s campaign promises to conclude foreign wars and avoid new entanglements, alongside his self-proclaimed identity as a peacemaker. Historical context reveals a disconnect, noting that the President authorized bombings in seven nations within his first year, a modern record.
The military campaign has triggered a dangerous escalation. Retaliatory strikes by Iran targeted not only Israel but also multiple U.S. allies across the region, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Kuwait. The conflict has claimed high-level figures, most notably Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claims to have launched hundreds of drones and missiles at over 500 U.S. and Israeli sites.
Human cost is mounting. The Iranian Red Crescent Society reports 555 fatalities from U.S.-Israeli attacks, while Iranian strikes have killed at least 11 in Israel. By Monday, the U.S. confirmed four American military personnel were killed at a base in Kuwait, alongside the loss of three U.S. F-15s.
The war’s domestic economic impact is already felt. Nearly half of all respondents (45%) stated rising gasoline prices would make them less likely to support the war, a concern shared by 45% of Republicans. Data from the American Automobile Association confirmed a national average price spike of 10 cents per gallon over the weekend, pushing the average to $2.99, with prices in Washington, D.C., exceeding $3.10 per gallon.
The Reuters/Ipsos poll concluded before the announcement of U.S. casualties. When questioned on this potential outcome, 42% of Republicans indicated American deaths would diminish their support for the military action, signaling that public opinion may further shift as the human and economic toll becomes increasingly evident.