FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Arya Javidi, Communications Manager
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (202) 921-6379
Date: March 26, 2026
Washington, DC — The Public Affairs Alliance of Iranian Americans (PAAIA) has released its 2026 National Public Opinion Survey on the Iran Conflict, offering new insights into the views of Iranian Americans across the United States during a critical moment in regional and global affairs.
Conducted by SurveyUSA from March 18–23, 2026, the survey reflects the perspectives of 450 Iranian Americans nationwide and provides a detailed look at attitudes toward U.S. policy, the ongoing conflict, and Iran’s future governance. The survey has a Median Credibility Interval of ±4.7%.
The findings reveal a community that is both engaged and nuanced in its views.
Key findings include:
- A majority of Iranian Americans (58%) support for U.S.–Israeli airstrikes on targets in Iran, though many express caution about long-term consequences
- Nearly half of respondents (48%) cite the possibility of the current or a more hardline regime remaining in power as their top concern, while 43% highlight civilian casualties
- When it comes to U.S. policy priorities, 60% identify bringing about regime change in Iran as a top objective, far surpassing other policy options such as pursuing negotiations or limiting Iran’s military capabilities
- The survey underscores a strong consensus around Iran’s preferred future system of governance, with 57% supporting a parliamentary democracy or republic and an additional 19% favoring a constitutional monarchy
- A plurality (45%) believe the United States should avoid taking positions on specific opposition leaders or groups, while 42% support such engagement
- Views shift when individuals or groups are named: a majority (59%) favor U.S. backing for Reza Pahlavi, whereas support for the Mujahedin-e Khalq (MEK) is minimal at 8%
- Reza Pahlavi is also seen as the only figure with meaningful potential to move Iran toward a democratic system, selected by 50% of respondents, while no other individual or group receives more than single-digit support and 23% remain unsure
- Respondents place the greatest emphasis on humanitarian assistance to people in Iran (46%), followed by promoting internet freedom (37%)
Taken together, the results reflect a community that supports efforts to counter the current regime while remaining deeply concerned about humanitarian impacts, long-term stability, and the path toward a democratic future for Iran.
Since 2008, PAAIA has commissioned nationally recognized pollsters to conduct scientific surveys of Iranian American public opinion. These surveys provide policymakers, media, and the public with reliable data and help ensure that the voices of Iranian Americans are accurately represented in national conversations.
