Majority of Americans oppose Trump’s Iran strategy and support ending conflict: New poll finds | Today’s news
A new CBS News poll conducted between June 17 and 19, 2026 shows strong public dissatisfaction in the United States with President Donald Trump’s handling of the Iran conflict, along with overwhelming support for ending the war.
The survey included 2,519 adults nationwide and has a margin of error of ±2.4 percentage points.
Most do not agree with Trump’s Iran strategy
The poll shows a clear divide in public approval of the administration’s approach to Iran.
The results indicate lingering skepticism about Washington’s strategy in both managing the conflict and negotiating with Tehran.
The public sees the deal as favorable to Iran
Respondents were asked how they view the emerging US-Iran deal.
Many respondents believe the deal benefits Iran more than the United States, reflecting doubts about the deal’s balance.
Strong support to end the conflict
There is overwhelming support among Americans for de-escalation.
The findings suggest a strong preference for ending hostilities rather than prolonging military pressure.
Low confidence in achieving war objectives
Most respondents expressed doubt that the US would achieve key strategic outcomes if the conflict ended on current terms.
Prevent Iran from threatening other countries: 32% yes / 68% no
Ending Iran’s nuclear program permanently: 31% yes / 69% no
Replacing Iran’s leadership with pro-US numbers: 21% yes / 79% no
Ensuring security and freedom for Iranians: 26% yes / 74% no
The conflict is considered largely unsuccessful
Public opinion is generally negative regarding the effectiveness of war across many dimensions.
Military operations were not successful: 38%
Strategic Interests Failed: 45%
Economic interests unsuccessful: 47%
Created more problems than it solved: 57%
Solved more problems than created: 21%
Gas prices and the nuclear issue are central to public opinion
Energy costs and Iran’s nuclear program are key factors shaping perceptions of success.
Importance of gas prices in the US:
Importance of Iran’s nuclear program:
Differing views on Iran’s power
Respondents are divided on whether Iran emerged stronger or weaker from the conflict.
Mixed opinion on the outcome of the regime
Public sentiment is evenly split on whether an end to the conflict with the current Iranian leadership is acceptable.
Perceptions of US motivation
Most respondents believe that the main goal of the administration is to end the conflict.
Because goals already met: 34%
Concerns about Iran’s future behavior
Most expect continued regional tensions regarding Iran.
There will definitely be a threat: 13%
Likely to be at risk: 46%
Not likely to endanger: 34%
Definitely not a threat: 6%
