A new Reuters/Ipsos poll, conducted July 24-27, 2026, shows that only about one in three Americans support military action against Iran. The survey, which polled 1,000 U.S. adults online, found that 34% of respondents backed a potential war with Iran, while 41% opposed it and 25% were unsure.
The poll also highlighted significant confusion about President Donald Trump's objectives in the region. Only 44% of Americans said they understood the administration's goals regarding Iran, while 56% said they were unsure or did not know. This uncertainty was bipartisan, with 52% of Republicans and 60% of Democrats expressing confusion.
The survey comes amid heightened tensions between the U.S. and Iran, following a series of incidents in the Persian Gulf. The Trump administration has maintained a policy of maximum pressure, including sanctions and military posturing, but has not clearly articulated a strategy for de-escalation or conflict resolution.
Among those who supported military action, 68% cited a desire to protect U.S. interests in the Middle East, while 22% mentioned preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Opponents of war primarily cited concerns about casualties (45%) and economic costs (30%).
