Survey finds 54% of Americans say military action against Iran was not worth the cost

A survey conducted from October 16 to 19, 2026 found that 54% of Americans believe the military action against Iran was not worth the costs when weighed against its benefits. Only 23% said the operation was worthwhile, while 20% said they were uncertain, according to the poll.

Opposition to the military campaign was higher than the share judging it not worth the cost, with 61% of respondents opposing US attacks on Iran compared with 34% who supported them. The opposition was particularly strong among Democrats, 88% of whom opposed the attacks. The figure stood at 66% among independents and respondents with other political affiliations. Similarly, 80% of Democrats and 55% of independents said the costs of the military action outweighed its benefits.

The poll also indicated widespread skepticism about the Trump administration's approach to the war. A total of 58% of respondents said the US government does not have a clear strategy for achieving its objectives in the conflict with Iran, while only 16% believed it had one.

The survey results were published by Mehr News Agency (MNA), which reported the findings without providing additional details on the polling methodology or sample size.