A Reuters/Ipsos poll released Monday found support for US military action against Iran at 31 percent — down from 37 percent in March and 34 percent earlier this month — driven by Republicans, whose support fell to 69 percent from 77 percent in spring. [1] The same survey held President Trump's approval at 33 percent for the second straight reading, matching his record low across Reuters/Ipsos polling of both his terms. [1]

The texture around the toplines is where the country actually is. Eighty-three percent expect the war to continue for an extended period, up from 80 percent earlier this month. Gasoline costs more than a dollar per gallon above its prewar level. Independents favor Democrats over Republicans for Congress, 33 percent to 19 percent. The four-day survey of 1,215 adults closed Monday, as Treasury prepared its escalation announcement. [1] [2]

The crossroads writes itself. Trump has told Americans the war is necessary to stop a nuclear Iran; the public has stopped arguing about the aim and started pricing the duration. On the day the administration committed to economic escalation rather than exit, the numbers say Americans are souring on the war itself — not demanding more of it, and no longer believing anyone who says it ends soon. [1]

-- MAYA CALLOWAY, New York