Poll: Just one in three Americans support Iran war; most unsure of Trump's goals

Public support for the war on Iran has fallen to its lowest point, with just one in three Americans backing the five-month-old conflict, according to a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll. The survey, conducted over the weekend, also found that most respondents feel President Donald Trump has failed to clearly explain the objectives behind the US military's involvement.

“

What matters most to the American people is having a commander in chief who takes bold action to keep them safe.

The poll revealed that 69% of Americans, including 40% of Republicans, believe Trump has not "clearly explained the goals of US military involvement in Iran." This sentiment comes as the President has offered shifting rationales for the war, including aiding Iranians in toppling their leaders, neutralizing Iran's ballistic missile capabilities, and preventing it from acquiring a nuclear weapon.

White House spokeswoman Olivia Wales stated that Trump's decisions are not based on "fluid opinion polls" and reiterated the administration's commitment to preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. She emphasized the president's focus on "taking bold action to keep them safe."

“

It's not clear why we started a war with them. I have no idea.

Approval for the conflict has remained below 40% since strikes began on February 28, a stark contrast to the early stages of previous wars like Iraq and Afghanistan, which saw significantly higher public backing. The war's unpopularity is placing pressure on Trump and the Republican Party as they approach the November midterm elections. Adding to public concern are the rising gasoline prices, which have increased significantly since the war's inception, and the reported deaths of 18 American soldiers, alongside thousands of casualties in Iran and Lebanon.

“

I don’t think he’s doing very well, personally.