Over 70% of Britons Believe US Threatens Global Peace
A US flag Paul Weaver/Unsplash

An increasing number of Britons now see the United States as a threat to global peace, according to the latest British Social Attitudes (BSA) report. The survey, conducted by the National Centre for Social Research (NatCen), is the UK's leading study for tracking long-term public opinion and social trends.

Sharp Rise in Britons Who View the US as a Global Threat

The newest findings show a dramatic rise in the number of British citizens who view the US as a danger to world peace. NatCen noted that 'increased public concern about potential threats to world peace posed by other countries, including above all Russia, has resulted in a marked increase in support for defence spending'.

In 2024, just 36% of Britons considered the US a significant threat. In 2025, that number has jumped to 72%, marking a twofold increase. The report also revealed that more UK residents now consider the United States more dangerous than China. The survey's full breakdown is as follows:

  • Russia – 90% (41% in 1994)
  • Iran – 78% (not recently surveyed)
  • North Korea – 77% (52% in 2005)
  • Israel – 73% (48% in 2005)
  • United States – 72% (36% in 2024)
  • China – 69% (28% in 2005)

Trump's Return Fuels Public Concern

The surge in scepticism toward the United States began after Donald Trump returned to office in January 2025. British citizens became increasingly alarmed when the US bombed Tehran's nuclear sites, escalating the ongoing Israel-Iran war.

Public confidence in the US was further shaken when Trump expressed doubts over his willingness to defend the United Kingdom and other European allies. According to NatCen, political affiliation plays a role in shaping these concerns.

Supporters of Labour (81%) and the Green Party (96%) are more likely to view the US as a threat. By contrast, only 68% of Conservative voters and 41% of Reform UK supporters share this sentiment.

Growing Support for Defence Spending

Rising fears over global instability, particularly concerning the US, have also contributed to a significant increase in public support for defence spending. Previously, only 20% of Britons supported increased investment in the military. That figure has now doubled to 40%.

The BSA survey also found that 9% of respondents believe defence should be the government's top priority, even above education, health, and other public services.

'The escalation of recent international conflicts is clearly reflected in the attitudes of the British population, who have never been so supportive of military spending and so concerned about serious security threats,' said NatCen's Research Director Gianfranco Addario.

He added: 'The Labour government's approach to addressing these concerns, particularly in navigating internal party divisions while aligning with public sentiment, will be crucial in determining its success in managing the country's security and defence policies.'

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