Following the U.S. airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear sites at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan on June 21—dubbed “Operation Midnight Hammer”—Google searches for terms like “World War III” and “US draft age” have surged. The spike reflects growing public anxiety over possible military conscription.
Although the U.S. has no active draft, it remains on standby under federal law and can be reactivated during national emergencies. The last draft ended in January 1973 after the Vietnam War, but fears of renewed conflict are rising. A recent Atlantic Council survey found that 69% of respondents believe a major war between global powers could happen within the next decade.
Many Americans, unfamiliar with draft procedures, are now trying to understand how it works. In a draft, men aged 20 are called first, followed by those aged 21–25, then 19- and 18-year-olds if needed. Over 16 million men aged 18–25 are already registered, while 1.3 million currently serve in the military.
The Selective Service requires registration from citizens, non-citizens, refugees, asylum seekers, and transgender individuals assigned male at birth. Exemptions exist for men in continuous long-term care before age 18, some elected officials, ministers, and certain dual nationals. College students can request deferments.
If laws change, women could be drafted as well. Registration is mandatory at age 18 and can be done online or at post offices. Failure to register is a felony, carrying up to five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and loss of voting rights, gun ownership, federal employment, and student aid.
