More than 90 percent of global netizens have condemned the recent military action against Iran, according to an online survey released by China Global Television Network, which reported widespread concern over escalating tensions in the Middle East. The poll found that 93.9 percent of respondents criticised the strikes, describing them as a violation of Iran’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, and urged an immediate halt to military operations to prevent further deterioration of the regional situation.
The military action took place amid ongoing diplomatic engagements between Washington and Tehran, a factor that appeared to shape public opinion reflected in the survey. According to the findings, 86.8 percent of respondents criticised the United States for intensifying military deterrence during a period of dialogue, arguing that such actions undermine diplomatic efforts and weaken adherence to international law. A significant majority, 79.8 percent, agreed that force is not an effective means of resolving international disputes, warning that military pressure often deepens hostility and reduces space for constructive negotiation rather than addressing underlying disagreements.
The reported strikes have resulted in substantial casualties, while satellite imagery circulating in international media showed damage to key sites in Tehran. International organisations, including the United Nations, along with leaders and governments from various countries, have called for restraint and emphasised the need to return to dialogue. The survey results suggest that public sentiment aligns with these calls, with 90 percent of respondents expressing concern that the already fragile peace process in the Middle East could deteriorate rapidly if hostilities continue. Participants cautioned that prolonged escalation would not serve the interests of any party involved and could widen the conflict’s geopolitical implications.
Beyond immediate security concerns, respondents also highlighted broader institutional risks. According to the survey, 94.7 percent warned that what they described as a hegemonic approach disregarding established norms of international relations could erode global trust in multilateral mechanisms and destabilise strategic stability worldwide. The poll was conducted across CGTN’s English, Spanish, French, Arabic and Russian platforms, drawing 23,464 responses within 24 hours of publication. The findings point to a strong wave of online public opinion urging de escalation, renewed diplomatic engagement and adherence to international law as tensions continue to unfold across the Middle East.
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