Nearly six in ten Americans disapprove of the US decision to launch military strikes on Iran, according to a new CNN poll conducted by SSRS. The survey was carried out soon after US and Israeli attacks began the conflict.
Overall, 59% said they disapprove of the strikes, while 41% approve. Strong disapproval stands at 31%, almost double the 16% who strongly approve.
More than half of Americans, 56%, believe a long-term military conflict between the US and Iran is at least somewhat likely. About 24% think such a conflict is very likely.
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Public trust in President Donald Trump’s handling of the situation appears weak. Around 60% believe he does not have a clear plan for dealing with Iran. About 62% say he should seek approval from Congress before taking any further military action.
Only 27% believe the US made enough diplomatic efforts before using force. Meanwhile, 39% feel diplomacy was not tried seriously enough, and 33% remain unsure.
When asked about possible next steps, only 12% support sending US ground troops into Iran. A strong 60% oppose the idea, and 28% are undecided.
On the question of overthrowing the Iranian government, 44% support the idea while 56% oppose it.
Interestingly, while 89% of Americans have long viewed Iran as unfriendly or an enemy, most do not believe the current strikes will reduce the threat. Around 54% think Iran will become more of a threat after the military action. Only 28% believe the strikes will make Iran less dangerous.
Political divisions are clear. Among Republicans, 77% approve of the strikes, compared to 32% of independents and 18% of Democrats. About 83% of Republicans believe Trump has a clear plan, while most Democrats and independents disagree.
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Within the Republican Party, there is also a divide. Supporters of the “Make America Great Again” movement are much more likely to strongly approve of the strikes and trust Trump’s decisions compared to non-MAGA Republicans.
Across most major demographic groups, including men, women, White, Black, Latino adults, and different age groups, majorities disapprove of the strikes.
In simple words, Americans are worried. Many see Iran as a threat, but they are not convinced that war is the right solution. People fear a long and costly conflict. The country appears divided, and the coming weeks could shape public opinion even more.
