"They put out fake polls", US President Donald Trump stated on 4/5 at an event for small businesses at the White House. "They poll about the Iran conflict, then say only 32% of the people support it. I don't like this, and I don't like war at all, but we are better equipped and have the strongest military in the world".
Trump did not specify which survey he was referring to. Last weekend, Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos released an online survey, conducted from 24-28/4 with 2,560 adults nationwide. It showed that 33% approved of Trump's handling of the Iran situation, compared to 66% who disapproved. Only 36% believed the US was justified in using force against Iran.
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US President Donald Trump speaks at the White House on 2/4. Photo: AFP |
Trump suggested the poll questions were biased against him. The US leader said polling organizations should have asked Americans whether they believed Iran should be allowed to possess nuclear weapons. "That number wouldn't be 32%. But even if they asked that, the result would still be 32%, because the polls are fake. They are completely fake", he said.
The Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos survey also indicated that the percentage of Americans disapproving of Trump as President increased to 62%, the highest since the beginning of his second term. Beyond the Iran issue, American voters were dissatisfied with his handling of several major issues, including the economy, inflation, immigration, and relations with allies.
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Approval/disapproval ratings for Trump on several major issues. Graphic: Washington Post |
Trump's remarks came as a ceasefire between the US and Iran became precarious due to a prolonged blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Tensions escalated when the US launched "Operation Freedom Project" to support cargo ships passing through Hormuz, while Iran responded by launching missiles and drones into the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Trump also criticized those who suggested the Iran conflict had lasted too long. "The conflict only broke out about six weeks ago, but they say 'why is it taking so long?'", President Trump stated, adding that the US has been involved in wars lasting many years.
Duc Trung (According to CNN, WION, AP)
