As tensions rise between the United States and Iran, particularly regarding Iran's nuclear program, a recent poll conducted by The Washington Post reveals significant public sentiment against the idea of launching U.S. airstrikes. The survey, carried out on June 18, 2025, asked over 1,000 Americans about their views on potential military action in response to threats posed by Iran's nuclear ambitions.
The findings indicate that a majority of Americans oppose the idea of U.S. airstrikes against Iran, with 45 percent of respondents expressing opposition compared to 25 percent who support such action. Additionally, 30 percent of participants remain unsure about their stance. These results highlight a significant 20 percentage-point margin against military intervention.
The poll asked the question: "At this time, would you support or oppose the U.S. military launching airstrikes against Iran over its nuclear program?" The responses were as follows:
Support: 25% Unsure: 30% Oppose: 45%When examining the responses by political affiliation, the results show a clear divergence. Among Republicans, 47 percent support airstrikes, while 24 percent oppose them, and 29 percent have no opinion. In contrast, a striking 67 percent of Democrats oppose military action, with only 9 percent in favor. Independents lean against airstrikes, with a 2-to-1 margin opposing military action.
Interestingly, among those who identify as military or veteran households, the opinions are more divided, with 37 percent in support of airstrikes, 24 percent unsure, and 39 percent opposed.
Despite the opposition to airstrikes, public concern regarding Iran's nuclear program remains significant. About 22 percent of Americans perceive Iran’s nuclear program as an “immediate and serious threat” to the U.S., while 48 percent consider it a “somewhat serious threat.” However, 23 percent view it as a minor threat, and 7 percent believe it poses no threat at all.
Political affiliations influence these perceptions as well. A greater proportion of Republicans (32 percent) view Iran's nuclear ambitions as an immediate threat compared to Democrats (15 percent) and Independents (19 percent).
The prospect of the U.S. engaging in a full-scale war with Iran raises alarms among the American public. Approximately 39 percent of respondents express being “very concerned” about potential military involvement, while another 43 percent are “somewhat concerned.” This indicates that about 82 percent of Americans hold some level of concern regarding military escalation with Iran.
The breakdown of concerns based on political affiliation shows that more than half of Democrats are “very concerned” about war, compared to around 26 percent of Republicans.
This latest poll illustrates a complex landscape of opinions among Americans regarding military action against Iran. While there is a clear opposition to airstrikes, concerns about Iran's nuclear program and the potential for war remain prevalent. As the situation evolves, public sentiment may shift, but currently, the consensus leans heavily against military intervention.
For continuous updates on this developing story and more insights into public opinion, stay tuned to The Washington Post.
