A new opinion poll indicates that Americans' approval of President Bush's handling of the war in Iraq is at its lowest level since the conflict began in 2003.

The Associated Press poll of 1,000 adults, conducted this week, shows only 38 percent of Americans approve of Mr. Bush's management of the Iraqi conflict. That's a drop of several points from earlier this year.

According to the survey, almost two-thirds describe the president as strong and likable. But the number of Americans who view Mr. Bush's confidence as "arrogance" has increased to 56 percent, jumping seven points since January.

Respondents who consider Mr. Bush honest has dropped slightly, with 50 percent now saying they do not consider the president truthful.

Political observers say any further erosion of trust could make it tougher for Mr. Bush to win support for his domestic and international priorities.

The AP poll has a margin of error of plus or minus three percent.

Some information for this report provided by AFP and Reuters.