MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Growing number of US citizens want out of Iraq

A growing number of United States citizens disapprove of President George W Bush and are more pessimistic than ever about the situation in Iraq, according to a public opinion poll released by CBS Tuesday.

The president's approval standing dropped to 34%, the lowest since taking office in 2001 and six points below last month. The poll was taken between last Wednesday and Saturday involving 1018 phone interviews in the whole country.

An overwhelming 59% disapprove of Mr. Bush's performance and even the fight against terrorism, one of his strong points, plunged to 43%, the lowest ever, with 50% clearly contrary to the president's actions in the matter. Last January 52% of interviews showed support for the White House's anti terrorist policy, with 43% disapproving.

Another disturbing index for the Bush administration is that the number of US citizens who believe the war in Iraq was not worth the cost rose to 63%, with only 29% supporting. Actually 53% believe that the price paid for ousting former Iraq dictator Saddam Hussein has been too high and 43% support the actions undertaken.

Furthermore 54% feel United States should pull out of Iraq, compared with 41% who said the military intervention was the correct decision.

Finally, regarding the controversial agreement allowing the United Arab Emirates to take over six of United States largest and most important ports, only 21% support the White House's green light decision and 70% reject the proposal.

As to the Iran crisis, and this country's intention of going ahead with plans to enrich uranium which could eventually be used in nuclear weapons, 55% of interviews support the diplomatic course to contain Teheran and only 21% would like to see an immediate military strike.