// DOSSIER — us-support-iran-war-trump-approval-lows
US Support for Iran War and Trump Approval Hit Record Lows in New Poll
REL_TIME: 25 Aug 2026 08:12Z · LANG: EN
A Reuters/Ipsos poll released on August 24, 2026, reveals that US public support for the war against Iran has fallen to a record low of 31%, driven largely by a decline in Republican backing. This drop coincides with President Donald Trump's approval rating stagnating at a record-low 33%. The six-month-old conflict, which began on February 28, 2026, has led to a de facto Iranian oil blockade, driving US gasoline prices up by over $1 per gallon. With 83% of Americans expecting a prolonged conflict, these economic and military pressures pose a significant challenge for Republicans defending narrow congressional majorities in the upcoming November midterms.
// Background
The conflict began on February 28, 2026, with joint US and Israeli military strikes against Iran. Although active combat has cooled, Iran's retaliatory blockade on regional oil exports has severely impacted global energy markets, driving US fuel prices to near-record heights. This directly contradicts Trump's 2024 campaign promises to curb inflation and avoid foreign entanglements, threatening his party's control of Congress.
// Key Developments
- US public support for military action against Iran fell to 31%, down from 37% in March 2026.
- President Trump's approval rating remains at a record low of 33% for the second consecutive survey.
- Republican support for the war dropped significantly from 77% in March to 69% in August.
- An overwhelming 83% of respondents expect the conflict to continue for an extended period.
- US gasoline prices have risen by more than $1 per gallon since the war began, fueling inflation concerns.
- Independent voters favor Democrats over Republicans 33% to 19% for the upcoming congressional elections.
// Timeline
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Donald Trump campaigns for the presidency on promises to lower inflation and avoid foreign military conflicts.
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The war begins with US and Israeli military attacks on Iran.
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A Reuters/Ipsos poll shows US support for the war at 37%, with 77% of Republicans in favor.
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Support for the war dips to 34%, and 80% of Americans expect a prolonged conflict.
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A new Reuters/Ipsos poll shows war support at 31% and Trump's approval at 33%; Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announces the 'Operation Economic Outcast' sanctions framework.
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Scheduled US midterm elections, where Republicans face pressure over narrow congressional majorities.
// Perspectives
[Trump Administration]
Maintains that military action is necessary to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, while attempting to increase non-military pressure through proposed economic sanctions.
[US Public]
Increasingly weary of the conflict due to rising fuel costs and the prospect of a protracted war, leading to historic lows in both war support and presidential approval.
[Independent Voters]
Leaning heavily toward Democrats (33% vs 19%) ahead of the midterm elections, reflecting dissatisfaction with the current administration's handling of the economy and war.
// Quotes
“for an extended period of time”
“America First”
“Operation Economic Outcast”