Domestic Terrorism Concerns Outpace Foreign Threats for Americans Post-9/11: Poll

According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, a Reuters/Ipsos poll indicates that concerns about domestic extremism and terrorism have surpassed those related to foreign threats for Americans, a quarter-century after the September 11th attacks. The survey, conducted from August 28-31 with 1,167 American adults, found that 33% identified “domestic terrorism” as the primary threat to American security, compared to 20% who cited foreign terrorism. An additional 42% pointed to random violence, such as mass shootings, as the main concern.

This marks a notable change from 2013, when 28% viewed foreign terrorism as the foremost threat, and domestic terrorism was cited by 21%. Regarding ideologically motivated attacks, 61% of Americans consider domestic extremists a greater danger, while 34% perceive foreign groups or individuals as the principal risk.

Despite the passage of time, the memory of September 11th remains potent, with approximately 60% of Americans reporting they still think about the attacks periodically. A similar proportion supports a military response to another major attack.

However, American perspectives on the post-9/11 wars have grown increasingly negative. A majority believe the conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq have not been worth the cost. Specifically, 54% of Americans do not support the ongoing war initiated by President Donald Trump against Iran, which he began six months prior with promises of a swift conclusion but has since become mired in conflict. Only 25% of Americans believe this engagement has been worthwhile, in contrast to the 54% who feel it has not.

Furthermore, 60% of respondents believe that security measures implemented after September 11th have been at least partially effective in preventing terrorist attacks. Nevertheless, a significant 65% oppose warrantless surveillance of citizens’ electronic communications by U.S. intelligence agencies.