After the US and Iran jointly launched airstrikes in Iran with Tehran retaliating with drones and missiles in the Middle East, describing the operation as a ‘direct attack on its sovereignty’. Amid the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, fears are growing that World War III might break out in a major spike in escalation of tensions in Middle East region. The US-Israel attack prompted retaliation from Iran, with missiles reported to have targeted Israel and countries across the Middle East, including the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Bahrain.
Amid the rising tensions, people are frantically searching a list of the safest countries to hide in if WWIII breaks out.
As the US, Israel and Iran increase its tensions after exchanging bomb strikes, a list of the safest countries to hide in if WWIII breaks out has been revealed. World War 3 has been something of a topic of interest for some time now.
Here are a list of countries where you can seek shelter if World War III breaks out:
Iceland: Iceland has earned a name as one of the most peaceful countries in the world. It has topped the Global Peace Index and is a relatively remote island geographically. Iceland has never been involved in modern wars and is geographically remote. The harsh climate and sparse population of Iceland reduce strategic importance and offers a safe haven for those seeking refuge from global military conflicts. The country has never taken part in a full-scale war or invasion and is geographically remote, one potential advantage in conflict.
Antarctica:Located at the most southerly point of the planet, Antarctica makes it one of the safest places to survive a nuclear war. With more than 14 million square kilometres, there is plenty of room for people to take refuge. It is completely isolated and uninhabited except for research stations. Far from strategic military targets makes it unlikely to be attacked. Though the extreme terrain is harsh in Antarctica, but provides natural protection from global conflicts.
New Zealand: If Iceland holds to top spot on the Global Peace Index, then New Zealand ranks second and has taken a neutral stance on most conflicts. The country also has a mountainous terrain making it easier for citizens to be protected. Located in the Southern Hemisphere, New Zealand is far from global power rivalries. The country’s self-sufficient agriculture and mountainous terrain make it ideal for survival.
Switzerland: This country is the most readily associated with political neutrality, even during World War Two. It is well protected by its terrain, landlocked geography and various nuclear shelters. It has a long‑standing history of neutrality has kept it out of major wars for decades. Switzerland is seen as one of the least likely countries to be targeted in a global conflict. Switzerland is one of the few European countries not to have provided assistance to Ukraine.
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Indonesia: Indonesia has often taken a neutral stance on political issues, with the country’s first president, Achmed Sukarno, describing their foreign policy as ‘free and active’. They act independently within international affairs, and say they are most concerned with world peace. Its large, dispersed geography reduces strategic military targets and is often listed as a possible safe haven due to low likelihood of being drawn into superpower wars.
Chile: The geography of Chile, separated by the Andes and Pacific Ocean, provides natural isolation from many conflict zones. It is rich in natural resources and agriculture, helping sustain populations if global supply chains break down. Chile is not typically aligned with major military blocs, lowering chance of direct involvement.
Tuvalu: Tuvalu, located in the Pacific Ocean roughly halfway between Hawaii and Australia, is home to only 11,000 people. The island has limited infrastructure and scarce natural resources, making it an unattractive target for any potential aggressors.
Bhutan: In 1971 Bhutan declared itself neutral in regards to any conflict after joining the United Nations. It is also landlocked and surrounded by mountainous regions, making it easier to defend the country.
Fiji: Fiji is a remote island nation far from most geopolitical flashpoints. Its dense forests and self‑sustaining resources support resilience. Along with a lack of clear military strategy and an army consisting of just 6,000 soldiers, Fiji ranks highly on the Global Peace Index.
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South Africa: South Africa is home to multiple sources of food, fertile land and fresh water, making survival easy. The country’s modern infrastructure could also increase chances of survival as these resources are managed. It could be positioned as a survival location due to resource self‑sufficiency.
Greenland: Greenland is an extremely remote with minimal population and limited strategic targets. Its isolation makes it less attractive in scenarios of global military escalation. Political neutrality and low international friction add to its safety.
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