Only 26 per cent of Australians supportive of war on Iran: Poll
Canberra, March 25
Only 26 per cent of Australians approve of the US and Israel's strikes on Iran and half the population would oppose the deployment of Australian troops, a poll has found.
The latest edition of The Essential Report, a monthly poll on social and political issues conducted by independent firm Essential Research, found that 10 per cent of Australians strongly approve and 16 per cent approve of the US and Israel's decision to initiate strikes on Iran, Xinhua news agency reported.
By comparison, 27 per cent of respondents said they strongly disapprove of the war and 15 per cent said they disapprove, with the remaining participants either neutral or unsure.
Asked about Australia's involvement in the ongoing conflict, 50 per cent of participants in the poll said they would oppose sending troops to support US-Israeli ground operations in Iran, compared to 21 per cent who said they would support such a move.
Respondents were also more likely to oppose than support Australia sending weapons and equipment to support third-party nations impacted by Iranian retaliatory strikes, such as the United Arab Emirates.
A clear majority of respondents, 60 per cent, were supportive of Australia working with international organizations to help peace talks and prevent further escalation.
In terms of diplomatic and trade relationships, 34 per cent of participants in the poll said that Australia should be working less closely with the United States, up from 14 per cent in 2021.
The poll of 1,008 people last week found 43 per cent disapproved of the US and Israeli bombardment of Iran, while just 26 per cent backed the move. Some 31 per cent were unsure or responded "don't know".
— IANS
Reader Comments
The 60% support for peace talks through international organizations is the most sensible finding. War solves nothing, it only creates more refugees and economic chaos. India has always advocated for dialogue, and that's the right path. 🇮🇳
Not surprising at all. Why should Australian or Indian soldiers die for a conflict between US/Israel and Iran? The poll shows people are waking up. The jump from 14% to 34% wanting less closeness with the US is telling. Global trust is shifting.
While I understand the sentiment against war, we must also acknowledge Iran's role in regional instability. A balanced view is needed. However, sending troops is definitely not the answer. Diplomacy and strong economic sanctions might work better.
This directly impacts us in India. Any war in the Middle East sends oil prices skyrocketing and affects our economy badly. Australia is right to be hesitant. We need stability for our own growth. Hope our government is watching and learning.
Respectfully, I think the article and some comments are missing a key point. The poll shows 31% were unsure. That's a huge number! It means the public isn't getting clear information on the *why* behind the strikes. Media needs to do better.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.