Poll: 71% of Turks want nuclear weapons as security concerns mount

A recent nationwide survey in Türkiye has revealed a significant shift in public sentiment regarding nuclear weapons, with a majority of respondents now in favour of developing such arms in response to rising regional security threats, particularly following Israel’s recent strikes on Iran.

According to the Middle East Eye, the poll, conducted by Research Istanbul from July 1 to 5, sampled 2,000 people across the country. 

It found that 71 per cent of those surveyed believe Türkiye should begin developing nuclear weapons, despite the country’s longstanding commitment to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), which it ratified in 1979. Only 18 per cent of respondents opposed the idea.

The findings reflect mounting public anxiety over Türkiye’s national defence capabilities. Although the government has heavily invested in the domestic defence sector in recent years, public confidence in the country's air defence systems remains low. Nearly half of the respondents expressed doubts about the ability of Türkiye’s air defences to withstand a potential military attack.

Scepticism also extends to Türkiye’s international security partnerships. According to the poll, 72 per cent of respondents said they do not believe NATO would adequately defend Türkiye in the event of an armed conflict.

To date, Ankara has made no public declarations or policy moves suggesting interest in pursuing a nuclear weapons program. However, the sharp increase in public support for nuclear development could add pressure on policymakers to reevaluate Türkiye’s defence posture.

Meanwhile, Türkiye continues to pursue peaceful nuclear energy development. The country is currently constructing its first nuclear power plant, Akkuyu, in collaboration with Russia’s state nuclear energy corporation, Rosatom. With an estimated cost of $20 billion, the facility will include four reactors and a total capacity of 4,800 megawatts. Once operational — expected next year — it will supply approximately 10 per cent of Türkiye’s electricity needs.

By Tamilla Hasanova