Americans skeptical about potential Iran war escalation

The Trump administration is deploying additional troops to the Middle East following recent military strikes on Iran, but polling shows 65% of Americans think large-scale ground operations are likely while only 7% support them. Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) and Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) joined other Republicans in signaling opposition to boots-on-the-ground operations, though Congress has blocked efforts to constrain the president's war powers. A March 17-19 Reuters-Ipsos poll found roughly six-in-ten adults believe recent U.S. action against Iran has gone too far, while 34% support deploying small special forces units for targeted operations. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Wednesday that negotiations remain "productive," but also indicated the president is prepared to escalate if Iran doesn't accept defeat. Trump told the New York Post he wouldn't rule out ground troops if necessary, signaling the conflict remains on a potential escalation path despite public and congressional skepticism.