A recent CBS News poll released Sunday reveals that a substantial majority of Americans disapprove of U.S. military action against Iran, with many citing negative impacts on the economy and rising gas prices. Despite this skepticism, large majorities also express strong support for ending the conflict quickly.
The survey, conducted among 3,335 adults from March 17–20, found that 60% of respondents disapprove of the United States taking military action against Iran, while 40% approve. On President Trump’s handling of the Iran situation specifically, 62% disapprove and 38% approve.
Overall approval for President Trump stands at 40%, with 60% disapproving. Among Republicans, support for Trump’s approach to Iran is notably strong: 82% approve, compared to 28% of independents and 6% of Democrats.
The poll also highlights concerns about the conflict’s trajectory in the Middle East. A combined 57% of respondents say the war is going somewhat or very badly for the United States, while 43% believe it is going somewhat or very well. Additionally, 68% state that the administration has not yet clearly explained U.S. goals in the conflict. Two-thirds (66%) describe the situation as a war of choice rather than a war of necessity.
Despite this skepticism, most Americans back specific objectives: 73% say it is important to permanently stop Iran’s nuclear program, 80% believe it is crucial to ensure Iran’s people are safe and free, and 92% state that ending the conflict quickly is essential.
However, opinions on regime change in Iran remain divided. Only 49% of respondents consider changing Iran’s leaders to pro-U.S. ones as important, while 51% do not. Nevertheless, 53% say it would be unacceptable if the conflict ended with Iran’s current leadership still in power.
Economic anxiety is widespread: 63% believe the ongoing conflict will make the U.S. economy weaker in the short term, and 44% think it will have a negative long-term impact on the economy.
The survey was conducted by CBS News among 3,335 adults in the United States with a margin of error plus or minus 2.1 percentage points.
