Three-out-of-four Americans (76%) believe it is likely that Iran will soon develop nuclear weapons.

Just 37% believe it is possible to prevent such an outcome while another 37% believe it is not possible. Men, by a 50% to 34% margin, believe Iran can be stopped from acquiring nuclear weapons. Women, by a 39% to 26% margin, disagree.

If the U.S. is unwilling to launch a military attack, just 24% believe that diplomatic efforts could stop stop Iran. Forty-eight percent (48% disagree).

There is an interesting partisan breakdown on this last question. Republicans and those not affiliated with either major party believe the chance of prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons declines significantly if the military option is taken off the table. Among Democrats, the prospects for success are essentially the same with or without the possibility of military action.\

Among Republicans, 48% believe it is possible to stop Iran. That number falls to 20% without the military option.

Among unaffiliateds, 37% believe Iran can be stopped. That falls to 23%.

As for Democrats, 27% believe Iran can be stopped. That number actually inches up to 28% if the military option is removed and only diplomatic approaches are used.

The survey also found that the nation is divided on a proposal to increase broadcasts into Iran for the purpose of building internal opposition to the current regime. Republicans strongly support this approach, Democrats are strongly opposed, and unafilliateds are split.

Seventy-one percent (71%) of Americans say they're following news stories of the situation in Iran somewhat or very closely.

Crosstabs available for Premium Members