---
title: "Talk with Iran"
description: "More than six-in-ten Americans approve of the U.S. negotiating directly with Iran over the issue of its nuclear program."
date: "2009-10-20"
authors:
  - name: "Russell Heimlich"
    job_title: "Former web developer"
    link: "https://www.pewresearch.org/staff/russell-heimlich/"
url: "https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2009/10/20/talk-with-iran/"
---

# Talk with Iran

While it has been the subject of divisive political debates, talking directly with Iran about its nuclear program is supported across the political spectrum. More than six-in-ten Americans (63%) support direct negotiations with Iran, with equal measures of support from Republicans (63%), Democrats (64%) and political independents (64%). Only 28% of Americans disapprove of direct negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program. But while Americans favor engagement, few (22%) believe that direct negotiations will work in getting Iran to give up its nuclear program. Fully 56% say negotiations will not work. And on the efficacy of talks, a partisan difference emerges. While a plurality of Democrats do not believe talks with Iran will work (47%), far more Republicans (81%) and independents (70%) doubt that negotiations will get Iran to give up its nuclear program. [Read More](https://www.pewresearch.org/pubs/1366/public-support-military-action-against-iran-nuclear-weapons)