A new poll shows most Americans believe Trump would start a large U.S. ground war in Iran, but few support it, as tensions rise after deadly strikes.

A Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted March 17–19, 2026, found 65% of Americans believe President Donald Trump will order a large-scale U.S. ground war in Iran, though only 7% support such a move. Trump’s approval rating remains at 40%, unchanged since U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28 triggered retaliatory attacks, resulting in over 2,000 deaths, including 13 U.S. service members. While 77% of Republicans approve of the military actions, 59% of Americans disapprove overall. The administration is reportedly considering deploying thousands of troops to secure the Strait of Hormuz or target Iran’s Kharg Island, though Trump denies plans for ground troop deployment.