A Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted over the weekend found that only one in four Americans approves of the United States strikes that killed Iran’s leader.
The survey, which concluded on Sunday, showed 27 per cent of respondents approved of the operation, while 43 per cent disapproved and 29 per cent remained unsure.
Widespread Awareness of the Strikes
Nearly nine in 10 respondents said they had heard at least some details about the strikes, which began early Saturday in coordination with Israel.
The poll captured opinions during the ongoing military action, before the US military later confirmed the first American losses: three service members killed and five seriously wounded.
Concerns Over Use of Military Force
Fifty-six per cent of Americans believe President Donald Trump is too willing to use military force to advance US interests.
This view was held by 87 per cent of Democrats, 23 per cent of Republicans, and 60 per cent of independents.
Among Republicans, 55 per cent approved of the strikes while 13 per cent disapproved.
However, 42 per cent of Trump’s party said they would be less likely to support the campaign if it results in US troops in the Middle East being killed or injured.
Economic and Election Implications
Forty-five per cent of respondents, including 34 per cent of Republicans and 44 per cent of independents, indicated they would be less likely to back the operation against Iran if petrol or oil prices rise in the United States.
Brent crude surged 10 per cent to around US$80 a barrel in Sunday’s over-the-counter trade, with analysts warning prices could reach US$100 if the conflict continues.
The poll was taken just three days before the opening of primaries for the US midterm elections, which will decide control of Congress for the next two years.
Voters have consistently ranked the economy as their top concern, well ahead of foreign policy issues.
Trump’s presidential approval rating slipped slightly to 39 per cent, down one point from a previous Reuters/Ipsos survey conducted February 18-23.
The online poll gathered responses from 1,282 US adults nationwide, with a margin of error of plus or minus three percentage points.
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