US-Iran war unpopular, Americans expect chaos

A Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted over six days, concluding on August 3, 2026, reveals that five months into the U.S.-led war with Iran, Americans are deeply pessimistic about the conflict's trajectory. Fifty percent of respondents expect the Middle East to become more unstable over the next year, compared to only 17% who foresee greater stability. The poll also shows widespread concern about rising gasoline prices, with 58% expecting them to worsen, as Iran has disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Public approval of the war stands at just 35%, and for the first time since December 2024, voters favor the Democratic Party over the Republican Party on handling war and terrorism (37% to 36%) and on managing the economy. The war, launched by President Donald Trump with Israel in late February, has cost U.S. taxpayers at least $37.5 billion and killed 18 U.S. service members and thousands of Iranians. The poll also highlights broader anxieties about the Russia-Ukraine war, potential China-Taiwan conflict, and other global flashpoints.