2026 CVA Policy Priorities Foreign Policy

New YouGov Poll Shows Americans Oppose Ground Forces in Iran and Express Deep Concern About the Conflict

A new  poll of 1,000 Americans from YouGov released today shows broad public opposition to U.S. military escalation in Iran and strong support for greater congressional involvement in decisions about war. 

The survey highlights growing concern among Americans about both the direction of the conflict and its consequences at home. 

Key findings include: 

  • 60% oppose deploying U.S. ground forces in Iran 
  • 43% of Americans oppose the war in Iran, compared to 31% who support it 
  • 62% say the conflict has increased the risk of terrorism on U.S. soil, while just 6% say it has decreased 
  • 53% say the war has made Americans less safe, compared to 16% who say more safe 
  • 44% say the Administration has been unclear  in explaining the  objectives  of the war,  versus 31% who say clear 

Americans also express  strong support  for congressional oversight: 

  • 57% say presidents should need approval for military action 
  • 57% say ground troop deployment requires congressional authorization 
  • 55% say current operations should have had congressional approval 

Concerned Veterans for America Executive Director John Vick responded to the findings: 

“These findings reinforce a clear message from the American people: they are wary of deeper military involvement, are concerned about the consequences, and expect their elected leaders in Congress to have a voice before the nation enters or escalates a conflict. Veterans understand the costs of war, and Americans want a strategy that is clear, accountable, and consistent with constitutional checks and balances.” 

View the  full poll toplines here. 

View  full poll crosstabs here.