Poll: Most Americans oppose military threats against North Korea

Aug. 20 (UPI) -- The majority of Americans oppose U.S. military threats against North Korea, according to a new poll. But that opinion changes if diplomatic efforts fail to solve the rift between the two countries.

The CBS News poll found that 59 percent of Americans believe the U.S. "should not" threaten military action against North Korea, while 33 percent said it should.

Among Republicans, however, those numbers are almost reversed. The poll found that 63 percent of GOP supporters believe the U.S. should threaten military action, while 30 percent said it should not.

Among Democrats, the vast majority -- 82 percent -- said the U.S. should not threaten military action, while only 11 percent said military threats are the right thing to do.

Independents tended to reflect the national average, with 58 percent against military threats and 33 percent in favor.

However, the poll also found that most Americans are in favor of military action if diplomacy doesn't work.

Overall, 58 percent approve of military action against North Korea if diplomatic efforts fail, while 34 percent disapproved.

Republicans were very clear where they stand, with 80 percent in favor of military action and 16 percent opposed. And more Democrats were in favor than those opposed, with 50 percent willing to use military force and 43 percent not willing to do so.

Independents once again reflected the national average, with 57 percent in favor of military action and 34 percent against.

President Donald Trump made headlines earlier this month when he threatened military action on North Korea if the country's leaders fail to adhere to U.S. demands.

"North Korea best not make any more threats to the United States," Trump said from his golf club in New Jersey. "They will be met with fire and fury like the world has never seen...he has been very threatening beyond a normal state."