A recent unclassified threat assessment by the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) succinctly described how the United States Intelligence Community sees Iran's threat: Iran will present a continuing threat to U.S. and allied interests in the region as it tries to erode U.S. influence and support Shia populations abroad, entrench its influence and project power in neighboring states, deflect international pressure, and minimize threats to regime stability.
The perception is not only limited to intelligence professionals. Even two-thirds of Americans in a recent TIPP Poll believe Iran poses a threat to the U.S. and its interests. 29% see Iran as a short-term threat (under six months), and 38% perceive it as a long-term threat. Republicans and conservatives are more likely to share the view, although most Democrats, liberals, and moderates concur.
