The United States is not currently in a civil war in 2025. While there are heightened political tensions, rhetoric about internal conflict, protests, and some instances of political violence, expert analysis and recent studies show that the risk of an actual civil war remains negligible. Civil war is defined as an organized, state-based armed conflict with significant battlefield deaths and opposition groups, conditions not met in the current US situation. However, these tensions and violence raise concerns about political instability and social division.
Political Tensions and Violence
Recent actions like President Trump's deployment of National Guard troops to certain cities and his rhetoric about a "war from within" have sparked debates and fears among some Americans about civil war, but many experts consider this hyperbole. There is ongoing political violence, sporadic clashes, and increased polarization, yet no large-scale organized armed conflict as seen historically in civil wars.
Expert Assessments
Scholars and analysts emphasize that political violence today, including isolated violent incidents, does not equate to civil war. The U.S. faces social media-driven sporadic violence rather than coordinated, large-scale armed conflict. The situation features heightened political discord, but the criteria for civil war—organized opposition, significant deaths on both sides, and sustained armed conflict—are not present.
Public Perception
Polling shows that a significant minority of Americans believe another civil war is possible in the near future, reflecting public anxiety rather than immediate reality. The climate of political hostility and rhetoric plays a large role in these perceptions, but academic and military experts warn against exaggerating the threat.
In summary, the US is currently facing serious political divisions and localized violence, but it is not in a civil war in the sense of organized armed conflict seen historically. The situation warrants attention to prevent escalation, but the risk of civil war remains low at this time.