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Iraq War a Mistake, Say 56% of Americans
- More adults in the United States are disappointed with the latest developments of the coalition effort in Iraq, according to a poll by Gallup released by USA Today. 56 per cent of respondents believe the U.S. made a mistake in sending troops to Iraq, up five points in a month.
The coalition effort against Saddam Hussein's regime was launched in March 2003. At least 2,567 American soldiers have died during the military operation, and more than 18,900 troops have been wounded in action.
In December 2005, Iraqi voters renewed their National Assembly. In May, Shiite United Iraqi Alliance member Nouri al-Maliki officially took over as prime minister.
Yesterday, al-Maliki met with U.S. president George W. Bush in Virginia. Bush reiterated his commitment to the military operation, saying, "I've told the Iraqi people we stand with (al-Maliki), and that no matter how tough it gets, we will complete this mission. We owe it to those who have served in combat. We owe it to those who have lost a limb. We owe it to those who have lost a life." 52 per cent of respondents believe the U.S. should withdraw immediately or within the next 12 months from Iraq.
Polling Data
In view of the developments since we first sent our troops to Iraq, do you think the United States made a mistake in sending troops to Iraq, or not?
Jul. 2006 | Jun. 2006 | |
Yes, a mistake | 56% | 51% |
No, not a mistake | 41% | 46% |
No opinion | 2% | 2% |
Here are four different plans the U.S. could follow in dealing with the war in Iraq. Which one do you prefer?
Jul. 2006 | Jun. 2006 | |
Withdraw immediately | 19% | 17% |
Withdraw in 12 months' time | 33% | 33% |
Withdraw, take as many years as needed | 38% | 41% |
Send more troops | 7% | 8% |
No opinion | 2% | 1% |
Source: Gallup / USA Today
Methodology: Telephone interviews with 1,005 American adults, conducted from Jul. 21 to Jul. 23, 2006. Margin of error is 3 per cent.