June 20, 2006

Abstract: (Angus Reid Global Scan) - Many adults in the United States support the diplomatic approach to deal with Iran's nuclear program, according to a poll by Opinion Dynamics released by Fox News. 59 per cent of respondents think the U.S. should negotiate with Iran even if the country does not stop its uranium enrichment activities.

(Angus Reid Global Scan) - Many adults in the United States support the diplomatic approach to deal with Iran's nuclear program, according to a poll by Opinion Dynamics released by Fox News. 59 per cent of respondents think the U.S. should negotiate with Iran even if the country does not stop its uranium enrichment activities.

After being branded as part of an "axis of evil" by U.S. president George W. Bush in January 2002, Iran has contended that its nuclear program aims to produce energy, not weapons. 87 per cent of respondents do not trust Iran on the issue of nuclear weapons, and 54 per cent believe the country cannot be stopped from building a nuclear bomb.

In November 2004, the Iranian government announced a voluntary suspension of its uranium enrichment program following international pressure. In August 2005, Iran resumed uranium conversion activities at the Isfahan facility. On Apr. 12, Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, declared, "I officially announce that Iran has joined the club of nations that own nuclear technology."

Earlier this month, European Union (EU) foreign policy representative Javier Solana presented a package of incentives designed by Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the U.S. to achieve negotiations with Iran on the reach of its nuclear program. The most contentious topic of the proposal calls for Iran to temporarily halt its uranium enrichment activities.

Yesterday, Ahmadinejad said his government's "experts are examining the proposal," but added, "The Islamic Republic of Iran has always favoured a just and equal dialogue with no preconditions. The government will defend people's rights with strength and wisdom."

Polling Data

The United States has agreed to join other nations in talks with Iran over its nuclear development program provided Iran first stops its uranium enrichment activities. The Iranians say they are willing to talk, but refuse to stop enriching uranium as a condition of negotiations. Do you think the United States should negotiate anyway?

Yes, should negotiate	59%
No, should not negotiate	30%
Depends	3%
Not sure	8%

Do you think the United States can trust what Iran says on the issue of nuclear weapons?

Yes	8%
No	87%
Don't know	5%

Do you think Iran can be stopped from building a nuclear bomb?

Yes	40%
No	54%
Don't know	5%

Source: Opinion Dynamics / Fox News
Methodology: Telephone interviews with 900 registered American voters, conducted on Jun. 13 and Jun. 14, 2006. Margin of error is 3 per cent.