It’s clear that regime change is among the biggest objectives of the U.S. War in Iran.
A War Without Public Support
President Donald Trump stated on March 5, 2026, that “I have to be involved in the appointment” of Iran’s next leader. He has also indicated a willingness to deploy U.S. Troops to “get the job done.” Though, unlike many past U.S. Military interventions, this war does not currently have the support of the American public.
A recent CNN poll found that 59% of Americans oppose the war, a sentiment echoed in other polls conducted since the conflict began. This lack of public support is historically unique, as most major U.S.-promoted regime change wars since 1900 have been bolstered by a unifying national narrative.
Historical Precedents
Throughout modern history, U.S. Presidents – from Franklin Roosevelt to Harry Truman, Lyndon Johnson, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama – have initiated wars with the aim of either overthrowing hostile regimes or supporting allies. However, these conflicts often benefited from broad public buy-in fueled by compelling narratives.
For example, in the 1930s and 40s, the perceived threat of fascism galvanized support for U.S. Involvement in World War II. Similarly, the attacks of September 11, 2001, fostered strong initial public support for the wars in Afghanistan (88% support in 2001) and Iraq (70% support in 2003).
The Missing Narrative
Currently, there is no comparable narrative driving support for the war in Iran. Experts suggest What we have is due to two key factors. First, previous successful narratives were rooted in a clear and present danger posed by a rival regime – such as German troops in Europe and the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor during World War II, or the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon following 9/11.
Today, most Americans do not view Iran as an existential threat. A Marist poll from March 3, 2026, indicated that 55% of Americans see Iran as a minor threat or no threat at all, down from 48% in July 2025. By contrast, 64% of Americans saw Iraq as a “considerable threat” prior to the 2003 U.S. War in Iraq.
Second, the current administration has not presented a strong, consistent message to the public regarding the goals and justification for the war. The stated reasons for military action have reportedly been “shifting.”
Potential Paths Forward
History suggests a potential off-ramp for Trump. When U.S. Leaders become embroiled in costly regime change wars lacking public support, they often choose to de-escalate, often with limited political repercussions. Examples include President Bill Clinton’s decision to end the mission in Somalia after the “Black Hawk Down” incident in 1993, and President Obama’s withdrawal of personnel from Libya following the 2012 Benghazi attack.
As the war continues, gas prices are rising, U.S. Soldiers are being killed, and the stock market is experiencing volatility. A withdrawal could be a viable option for the administration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary objective of the U.S. War in Iran?
It’s clear that regime change is among the biggest objectives of the U.S. War in Iran, with President Trump stating he wants to be involved in the appointment of Iran’s next leader.
What percentage of Americans oppose the war in Iran?
A recent CNN poll found that 59% of Americans oppose the war.
What historical events are cited as examples of wars with strong public support?
The examples of World War II, the war in Afghanistan, and the war in Iraq are cited as examples of wars that benefited from strong initial public support due to unifying national narratives.
Given the current lack of public support and the historical precedents for de-escalation, what do you believe will be the most significant factor influencing the future course of the U.S. War in Iran?
