Trump: Americans still back Iran war

President Donald Trump defended the U.S. military campaign against Iran on Wednesday as he traveled to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware for the dignified transfer of four American service members killed in the conflict, arguing that the public still supports the war despite growing concerns over its cost, casualties, and duration.

Speaking before departing the White House, Trump rejected suggestions that Americans are turning against the military operation, saying opposition is focused on rising gasoline prices rather than the campaign itself, the Washington Examiner reported.

"Americans aren't against the war," Trump said, citing polling that he said showed continued public support. He did not identify the survey.

Trump traveled to Dover to receive the remains of the service members killed in recent Iranian attacks, marking the latest Dignified Transfer ceremony he has attended during the conflict.

His remarks come as the administration faces mounting questions about the war's objectives, its economic impact, and whether public support is beginning to erode.

Recent polls suggest many Americans favor a negotiated end to the conflict over a prolonged military campaign. A Reuters/Ipsos survey found that only about one-quarter of Americans believed the war had been worth its costs, while other polls have shown broad support for pursuing a diplomatic resolution.

Support also appears to have softened among some of Trump's political base. One recent survey found backing for the war among self-identified MAGA voters had declined from earlier in the conflict as concerns over its financial and human toll increased.

Trump has consistently argued that military action is necessary to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and has vowed retaliation for attacks that killed American service members. At the same time, he has continued to signal that he remains open to reaching an agreement with Tehran while warning Iran against further attacks on U.S. forces or American allies.

The White House has maintained that the military campaign is meeting its objectives and that diplomacy remains possible, according to the Washington Examiner.

The conflict is also emerging as a political issue ahead of November's midterm elections. Democrats have criticized the war as an unnecessary escalation, while most Republicans have defended Trump's approach as a necessary response to a major national security threat.