Trump Approval Falls to 33% as Iran War Deepens US Public Anger
- By Thetripurapost Desk, Washington
- Aug 18, 2026
- 140
US President Donald Trump approval rating has dropped to 33%, its lowest level of his current presidency, as growing public concern over the prolonged Iran war puts additional political pressure on his administration.
According to the latest Reuters/Ipsos poll, 64% of Americans disapprove of Trump's performance, compared with only 33% who approve. The latest figure is down from 35% earlier this month and matches the lowest approval level recorded during Trump's first presidency in December 2017.
The poll, conducted among 1,166 US adults, comes as the conflict with Iran continues to affect energy markets, fuel prices and American public opinion.
80% of Americans Fear Long Iran War
The survey highlights widespread concern about the duration of the US-Iran conflict.
Around 80% of Americans believe the war could continue for a long time. That view is shared across party lines, with 87% of Democrats and 71% of Republicans expecting a prolonged conflict.
Only 16% believe the fighting could end within a few weeks. Support for the decision to go to war with Iran is also limited, with only around one in five Americans saying the conflict was worth pursuing.
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Trump Rejects Extension of Iran Negotiations
Diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran have also reached another difficult stage.
Trump has ruled out extending the 60-day framework for negotiations with Iran. He has argued that Tehran wants an agreement but is unwilling to accept the conditions Washington considers necessary.
The central US demand remains preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons, while Tehran continues to maintain that its nuclear programme is intended for peacefully purposes.
US-Iran Peace Efforts Remain Stalled
A June memorandum established a 60-day period intended to create a pathway toward a ceasefire and broader agreement. However, the framework failed to produce a lasting diplomatic breakthrough.
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Major disagreements remain over Iran's nuclear programme, the Strait of Hormuz and the terms of any long-term peace arrangement. Reuters reported that the agreement had effectively broken down, with Washington rejecting an extension.
Iranian officials have also rejected the US interpretation of the negotiation framework, arguing that Washington failed to fulfil its commitments.
Trump Administration Prepares Tougher Economic Pressure
With diplomacy stalled, Washington is increasingly turning toward economic measures against Tehran.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has indicated that additional sanctions could be announced, potentially making them some of the toughest economic restrictions imposed against a country.
The strategy would increase pressure on Iran's economy without necessarily relying on a fresh round of direct military strikes.
Reuters has reported that Iran is already facing severe economic difficulties, with inflation, damaged infrastructure, disrupted trade and declining revenues adding to pressure on the country's leadership.
Strait of Hormuz Becomes Key US-Iran Flashpoint
The Strait of Hormuz has emerged as one of the most sensitive issues in the confrontation.
The strategic waterway connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea and is crucial to international energy shipments. Disruptions in the strait have already contributed to higher oil prices and increased concerns about global energy supplies.
Trump has maintained a hardline position over the waterway, while Iran has threatened further military action if diplomatic efforts fail.
Trump Warns Oman Over Strait of Hormuz
The confrontation has also brought US relations with Oman under pressure.
Oman has historically played a role in facilitating communication between Washington and Tehran and has been involved in efforts surrounding the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump recently warned Oman against obstructing US objectives in the region and raised the possibility of military action. The remarks have added another layer of uncertainty to an already volatile situation.
What Happens Next in the US-Iran Conflict?
The collapse of the 60-day diplomatic framework leaves Washington and Tehran facing a potentially dangerous new phase.
The Trump administration appears determined to increase economic pressure while maintaining its demands over Iran's nuclear programme. Tehran, meanwhile, has shown little indication that it will accept Washington's conditions.
The biggest question is whether mounting economic and military pressure will bring Iran back to negotiations or trigger further escalation.
The Strait of Hormuz could become the decisive flashpoint. Any prolonged disruption there could have consequences well beyond the Middle East, affecting oil prices, global trade and inflation.
For Trump, the political cost is already becoming evident. His 33% approval rating, combined with widespread concern about the Iran war, presents a significant challenge for the administration ahead of the US midterm elections.
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