Poll finds most Americans doubt Iran war was worth the cost as Trump’s approval rating slips

A recent Reuters/Ipsos survey indicates that a majority of Americans remain unconvinced that President Donald Trump’s conflict with Iran

A recent Reuters/Ipsos survey indicates that a majority of Americans remain unconvinced that President Donald Trump’s conflict with Iran was worth the economic and political costs. The poll also highlights widespread skepticism about the durability of the recently announced truce between Washington and Tehran.

The five-day nationwide survey, which concluded on Monday, found that only about one-quarter of Americans believe the war produced benefits that justified its consequences. Public concern over the conflict appears to be affecting Trump’s political standing, with his approval rating falling to 34 percent, matching the lowest level recorded during his second term and equaling figures seen in a poll conducted earlier this year.

According to the survey, only 23 percent of respondents believe the United States is now in a stronger position regarding Iran than it was before the conflict began. In contrast, 35 percent think the country’s position has weakened. The remaining participants either felt that the situation had not changed significantly or were uncertain about the outcome.

The conflict began after joint U.S. and Israeli military operations targeted Iranian sites in late February. Iran responded with strikes that disrupted a substantial portion of global oil transportation and damaged energy infrastructure belonging to several U.S. allies in the region. The fighting contributed to uncertainty in international energy markets and raised concerns about a wider regional escalation.

On June 18, Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reached a preliminary agreement aimed at easing tensions. The accord included measures to reopen key oil and gas shipping routes that had been disrupted during the conflict and reduce some of the economic pressure imposed on Iran. The agreement helped stabilize global energy markets and contributed to a decline in crude oil prices.

Despite these developments, many Americans remain doubtful about the long-term impact of the deal. The survey found that 63 percent of respondents do not believe the agreement will produce lasting peace between the United States and Iran. Skepticism was evident across party lines, with roughly half of Republican respondents and a large majority of Democrats expressing doubts about the prospects for a durable settlement. Only 18 percent of those surveyed said they believed the agreement was likely to secure long-term peace.

Trump entered office promising to lower inflation, strengthen the economy, and avoid prolonged foreign conflicts. His image as a negotiator and businessman played a central role in his political appeal. However, economic concerns continue to weigh heavily on public opinion. His approval rating on issues related to the cost of living stands at just 22 percent, one of the lowest levels of his presidency.

The poll also suggests potential political challenges ahead of the November midterm elections. Since returning to office, Trump’s popularity has declined amid persistent inflation and controversy surrounding his immigration policies. His administration’s efforts to intensify deportations have sparked criticism and public protests, further fueling political divisions.

Independent voters appear particularly dissatisfied. Only 17 percent of independent registered voters said they would currently support a Republican congressional candidate in their district, while 34 percent indicated they would vote for a Democrat.

Trump’s handling of immigration also received low marks, with only 37 percent of Americans approving of his approach. The survey, conducted among 1,262 adults across the United States, carries a margin of error of approximately three percentage points, highlighting growing uncertainty about both the administration’s policies and its political future.