Survey finds Iran conflict unpopular among the majority of American citizens

Washington (ANTARA) – The Iran conflict is not popular among the majority of American citizens, as several recent surveys show broad opposition across the country. The latest New York Times/Siena poll finds that 64 per cent of respondents believe the decision to go to war with Iran was the wrong one, in line with results of similar polls. Rosa King (45), an office worker outside Washington DC, told Xinhua that she is “disappointed” with a president who, in her view, is “controlled” by Israel. Brad Garcia (34), a car sales employee near Washington DC, told Xinhua that he believes Israel has too much influence over the US. Additionally, a large number of younger Republican voters and independents who tend to support the Republican Party are becoming more sceptical about the conduct of the war and its long-term financial impacts, according to the poll. “Trump thought Iran would be a quick and easy victory, and that he could negotiate with the leaders there. But none of that has materialised,” said Darrell West, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, to Xinhua. Public opposition arises from the lack of clear strategic objectives and the severe economic impact. Disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz have triggered a 50 per cent surge in domestic fuel prices. The sharp rise in fuel prices has also driven down the public approval rating of US President Donald Trump to a record low. Meanwhile, on Wednesday (20/5), Trump claimed that the conflict in Iran was near an end. “We are in the final stage (of the Iran conflict),” he told reporters as he boarded Air Force One. “We’ll just have to see what happens. We may reach an agreement or do a few unpleasant things, but hopefully that won’t happen,” the US leader added.