Polls Show Widespread U.S. Opposition to Iran War

A series of polls released in early May 2026 reveal deep public opposition to the war against Iran launched by the United States and Israel on February 28. A joint Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos survey found that 61 percent of U.S. citizens believe the use of force was a mistake, a level of disapproval comparable to the Vietnam and Iraq Wars. While 79 percent of Republicans support the action, 91 percent of Democrats and 71 percent of independents oppose it.

Donald Trump and his administration maintain the mission is a success, but only 19 percent of polled Americans agree. Economic pressures have intensified opposition, with a Reuters poll showing 77 percent of Americans blame the president for gas prices hitting an average of $4.39 per gallon. This surge follows the closure of the Strait of Hormuz during a dual blockade by the U.S. and Iran, disrupting 25 percent of global oil transport. The conflict has resulted in at least 13 U.S. service member deaths and thousands of casualties across the Middle East.

International support is also wavering; 68 percent of Germans believe their government lacks a clear strategy, and Chancellor Friedrich Merz has criticized the Trump administration for lacking a plan. Despite these pressures, the U.S. remains focused on dismantling Iranian nuclear capabilities. Experts suggest Iran is using propaganda to exploit U.S. public discontent to negotiate a more favorable deal while refusing to relinquish its enriched uranium stockpile.