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Trump's Iran war drains US navy budget
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
US support for Iran war falls to 31% as Trump approval holds at record low 33%.
The war's cost and stalemate are eroding public backing and presidential standing.
Background
The US has been involved in a war with Iran since February 28, 2026, which began with US-Israeli attacks. The conflict has been costly and prolonged, and public support has declined over time. A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll shows support at 31%, the lowest since early days, while Trump's approval remains at a record low of 33%.
How it unfolded
- Feb 28, 2026US-Israeli attacks on Iran mark the start of the war.
- Mar 2026Reuters/Ipsos poll shows 37% support for the war.
- Aug 2026Support falls to 34% earlier in the month, then to 31% in the latest poll.
- Aug 24, 2026Reuters/Ipsos poll closes showing 31% support for the war and Trump approval at 33%, a record low.
Who’s saying what
- Public
- Only 31% of Americans support military action against Iran, down from 37% in March.
- Official
- Trump says the war is necessary to keep Iran from developing a nuclear weapon.