Recent Middle East tensions have led to a surge in Google searches for “WWIII” and “US draft age limit,” reflecting increased public concern about a possible military draft. Although the U.S. currently has an all-volunteer military, federal law allows for conscription to be reinstated during a national emergency.
A recent survey shows many Americans expect major wars in the next decade. Since the draft ended in 1973, most Americans are unfamiliar with the process, but about 16.4 million men aged 18 to 25 are registered with the Selective Service System, which would be used to call up draftees.
Men, including citizens, permanent residents, refugees, and even some transgender individuals assigned male at birth, are required to register by age 18. Failure to register can…
