March 25, 2026
Many Americans are uneasy about the recent U.S. military action against Iran. A recent poll reveals that 60% of adults think it has gone too far. Only 26% feel it’s about right, while a mere 13% believe it’s not enough. This division is noteworthy: 90% of Democrats think the action is excessive, compared to 52% of Republicans who share that sentiment.
When asked about the goals of U.S. foreign policy, 65% of respondents say it’s crucial to stop Iran from developing nuclear weapons. An even larger number, 67%, prioritize keeping oil and gas prices stable in the U.S. In contrast, fewer view stopping Iran from threatening Israel (39%) or replacing its government with a friendlier one (33%) as important objectives.
Opposition to ground troops in Iran is significant, with 62% against such action. Nearly half, 48%, also oppose funding Israel’s military. Opinions vary on conducting airstrikes, with only about a third in favor of targeting military sites in Iran or taking out Iranian leaders. Interestingly, many participants chose not to express a definitive opinion.
The trust in President Trump’s foreign policy decisions, especially concerning nuclear weapons and military deployment, remains low. Only 27% of respondents feel confident in his judgment in these areas. However, Republicans tend to trust him more than Democrats or independents.
This sentiment isn’t new. In a prior poll from February 2026, many Americans expressed hesitation about Trump’s ability to effectively manage foreign affairs. Despite the military action, this lack of trust persists. It poses questions about future U.S. foreign policy, especially as tensions with Iran continue. Public opinion seems to favor caution over aggression, reflecting a desire for stability over military intervention.
This polling data underscores a critical moment in U.S. politics, pointing to a growing desire among citizens for a more diplomatic approach. As the world changes, so do the opinions of those living within it. The full implications of these sentiments will unfold in the months ahead. Read more here.
The poll was conducted by the AmeriSpeak® Panel between March 19-23, 2026, engaging 1,150 adults. The margin of error is +/- 4.0 percentage points, reflecting the current climate of public opinion in America.
