A War Restrained by the People

The article argues that public opposition is increasingly limiting President Trump’s options in the Iran war. Its author says the conflict began without adequate public preparation and that voters now favour a rapid settlement over further escalation, making domestic opinion a more significant restraint than Congress.

Five months into the war, a YouGov poll found that 57% regarded the decision to go to war as wrong, while about a quarter supported it. Around two-thirds wanted a deal to end the war quickly despite possible compromises, and roughly 80% expected the conflict to continue; support for sending troops was reported to be highest among MAGA Republicans, at up to 40%.