INSS: Israelis as concerned about violence between social groups as Iran acquiring nuclear weapons

A new INSS survey reveals that Israelis view violent conflict between social groups and Iran acquiring a nuclear weapon as equally threatening, with 39% ranking each as a top concern. The July survey also shows growing fears of a prolonged war and international isolation, while concern over a large-scale missile attack and democratic erosion declined slightly.

A new survey by the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS) reveals that Israelis view violent conflict between social groups and Iran acquiring a nuclear weapon as equally threatening, with 39% of respondents ranking each as a top concern in July 2026. The survey, based on three waves (two in February and one in July), shows a slight decline from February when 42% feared internal violence and 40% feared Iran's nuclear ambitions. Growing concerns include a prolonged war on one of Israel's fronts (27%, up 4%) and international isolation and sanctions (26%, up 5%). Fewer Israelis fear a large-scale missile attack (35%, down 3%) or erosion of democratic character (31%, down 3%). Experts view democratic erosion (67%), internal violence (58%), and international isolation (44%) as the greatest threats. The public's confidence in defenses may be rising: 56% anticipate significant damage from a missile attack, down from 66% in February. The survey also found that 69% expect heavy damage if internal violence occurs, and 64% believe the state is poorly prepared for such conflict.