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In a time when the United States finds itself embroiled in yet another Middle Eastern conflict, this time targeting Iran, a fresh Reuters/Ipsos poll reveals a divided American public. The poll, made public on Sunday, indicates that only about 27 percent of those surveyed endorse “Operation Epic Fury,” a military initiative launched jointly by the U.S. and Israel early Saturday morning. In contrast, 43 percent oppose the strikes, while a notable 29 percent remain undecided.
Delving into the political spectrum, the survey uncovers significant partisan divides. Among Republicans, over half express support for the military action, with 32 percent uncertain and a mere 13 percent opposing it. Democrats, however, show stark opposition, with only 7 percent in favor, a substantial 74 percent against, and 19 percent unsure of their stance.
The conflict has already taken a toll on U.S. forces. According to U.S. Central Command, as of 9:30 a.m. EST on Sunday, three American service members had lost their lives, with five more injured and several others suffering minor injuries and concussions. The operation’s high-profile target, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was among those reported killed, alongside other key political and military figures in Iran.
Beyond this particular conflict, the poll sheds light on broader sentiments regarding the use of military force under President Trump. More than half of the respondents believe the president resorts to military action too frequently. This concern spans across party lines, with 23 percent of Republicans, a striking 87 percent of Democrats, and 60 percent of independents sharing this view.
The skepticism from Americans on President Trump authorizing military action does not extend only to Iran. Over half of respondents to the Reuters/Ipsos poll said the president uses military force “too much,” including 23 percent of Republicans, 87 percent of Democrats and 60 percent of those who do not identify with either party.
In recent months, Trump has overseen operations in Iran, Venezuela, Syria and Nigeria, after vowing during his 2024 campaign that he would end the cycle of U.S. entanglements abroad and focus on issues at home. For that, the president has received backlash from Democrats on Capitol Hill but also members of his MAGA base.
As for the timeline of the operation in Iran, a country of over 90 million people, Trump told the Daily Mail it will take roughly four weeks.
“It’s always been a four-week process. We figured it will be four weeks or so. It’s always been about a four-week process so — as strong as it is, it’s a big country, it’ll take four weeks — or less,” he said.
The Reuters/Ipsos survey was conducted online with 1,282 U.S. adults. It has a margin of error of 3 percentage points for all adults and between 4 and 5 percentage points for specific political affiliations.