U.S. Drone Program Widely Opposed Abroad - Survey

U.S. Drone Program (Photo: PalestinianPundit)

The U.S. drone program is still widely unpopular overseas,  according to a recent survey by the Pew Research Center.

Among the 20 countries surveyed, 17 voiced out their disapproval of U.S. drone attacks targeting extremist leaders and groups in nations such as Pakistan, Yemen and Somalia.

"There remains a widespread perception that the U.S. acts unilaterally and does not consider the interests of other countries," the study authors said, especially in predominantly Muslim nations, where American anti-terrorism efforts are "still widely unpopular."

In America, however, 62% of respondents said they are in favor of the unmanned drone program under President Barack Obama, including most Republicans (74%), independents (60%) and Democrats (58%).

"In order to prevent terrorist attacks on the United States and to save American lives, the United States government conducts targeted strikes against specific al-Qaida terrorists, sometimes using remotely piloted aircraft, often referred to publicly as drones," White House counterterrorism chief John Brennan said in April in a detailed and wide-ranging defense of the policy.

The survey, which was conducted from March 17-April 20, also found out that despite disappointment with Obama’s policies, there is still considerable support for his re-election in many countries, especially in Europe.