US public opposition to Trump’s Iran war hits Iraq, Vietnam-era levels

Public disapproval of President Donald Trump's military action against Iran has reached levels comparable to the Iraq War and the Vietnam War at their peak unpopularity, according to recent data, with 61% of Americans calling the conflict a mistake.

The level of opposition has formed within two months of the conflict's start on 28 February, a faster pace than in previous wars, which took years to reach similar disapproval despite higher US casualties, says the WAshington Post.

Support for the military action is sharply divided along partisan lines. While 79% of Republicans back the use of force, 76% of Democrats and 50% of Independents favour a negotiated settlement, even if the terms are less favourable to the United States.

The conflict has also raised economic concerns, particularly after a near-total halt in shipping through the Strait of Hormuz disrupted global oil markets. About 60% of Americans say they fear the war will lead to a recession, while 40% report feeling "not as well off" as when Trump took office, up from 33% before the conflict began. Many respondents say they have adjusted spending habits, including reducing travel and household expenses, in response to rising fuel costs.

Trump has said the campaign is necessary to ensure Iran does not develop nuclear weapons. However, 65% of Americans say they lack confidence that any eventual agreement will successfully prevent Tehran from obtaining such weapons.

Concerns about security and international relations have also increased. Some 61% of respondents say the conflict has heightened the risk of terrorism against Americans, while 56% believe it is weakening ties with US allies. Internally, Vice President JD Vance has raised concerns about the depletion of US munitions stockpiles.

The conflict has also prompted questions about consistency with Trump's campaign pledges. About 46% of Americans say the military action is inconsistent with his 2024 promise to avoid foreign wars, a view shared by a portion of Republican voters.

Negotiations remain stalled. Trump is demanding total nuclear capitulation from Iran before any agreement, while Iranian officials are prioritising steps to reopen global shipping lanes.

Public scepticism has been reinforced by doubts about the effectiveness of the military campaign. A 65% majority say they do not believe the conflict will achieve its stated objective of preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons.

Statements from the White House have also drawn criticism. Trump's 7 April warning that "a whole civilisation will die tonight" was viewed negatively by 76% of Americans, including a majority of Republican respondents outside his core support base.

Despite relatively limited US casualties so far, including the deaths of 13 service members, opposition has risen rapidly, marking a departure from previous conflicts where similar levels of public disapproval emerged only after significantly higher loss of life.