BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 6. A majority of Americans believe the conflict involving the United States and Iran will lead to greater instability in the Middle East, according to a new Reuters/Ipsos poll.
The six-day survey, which concluded on Monday, found that 50% of respondents believe U.S. military action against Iran will destabilize the region over the next year.
By comparison, only 17% said they expect the conflict to bring greater stability, while 16% believe the situation will remain largely unchanged. Another 17% were unsure or declined to answer.
The poll was conducted as U.S. President Donald Trump again stepped back from previously threatened large-scale military strikes against Iran, highlighting continued uncertainty over the course of the conflict.
The survey also found widespread concern about fuel prices. Fifty-eight percent of respondents said they expect gasoline prices to increase, while only 15% believe prices will improve.
Rising concerns over energy costs have been linked to disruptions in shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil exports.
