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The survey shows just 23 percent of Americans believe that the Syrians will surrender their chemical weapons stockpile, while 38 percent believe the Assad will not turn over the weapons of mass destruction. Six in 10 say that the Assad regime is simply stalling, and not negotiating in good faith.

Support for a military response if Syria fails to disarm remains lukewarm, however. Only 11 percent of those surveyed said they would prefer a military strike by the United States and coalition partners, as President Obama has advocated. Meanwhile, just 26 percent said generally they support the use of chemical weapons there.

That said, a plurality — 37 percent — believe the president will order military action of Assad refused to disarm. Just two in 10 say the president would not respond militarily were Syria to refuse the conditions of the arrangement brokered with Moscow earlier this month.

Overall, only 30 percent of Americans approve of the president's handling of the Syrian crisis. By contrast, 44 percent disapprove, with 36 percent of all Americans saying they do so strongly.