Poll finds Americans expect more Middle East chaos as Iran war continues

Five months into the U.S. war with Iran, Americans expecting Middle East chaos outnumber those anticipating stability three-to-one, a Reuters/Ipsos poll shows, posing political risk for Republicans. Fifty percent of respondents said U.S. military action would destabilize the region over the next year, against 17% expecting more stability. Fifty-eight percent expected worsening gasoline prices as Iran restricts traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. Only 35% approve of the war. Launched with Israel in late February, the war has cost at least $37.5 billion and killed 18 U.S. service members. Voters now favor Democrats on war and terrorism for the first time since December 2024.