Drones increasingly opposed: Poll

In 12 countries, eight-in-ten or more hold an opposing view to drones.

US drone strikes, one of the key features of President Barack Obama's national security policy, are widely opposed across the world, with 31 of 39 nations surveyed, at least half disapproving the anti-extremists drone campaign in countries such as Pakistan, Yemen and Somalia, according to a poll released Thursday.

In 12 countries, eight-in-ten or more hold this view, a 39-nation study by the Pew Research Center found.

The only countries in which a majority supports American drone strikes are Israel (64%), the US itself (61%), and Kenya (56%), it said.

The poll also said the world increasingly believes China will become the top superpower but the United States enjoys a better image in most regions.

Drones, especially in Pakistan, incite a lot of public anger and are seen as counterproductive, causing civilian deaths as part of collateral damage and violating sovereignty.