Iceland To Switzerland: Which Nations Offer The Greatest Safety If World War Breaks Out?

Last Updated:June 24, 2025, 17:29 IST

With violence showing no sign of easing in the Iran–Israel war, the world now ponders: where might one stay safe if a global war ensues?

Bombs hitting a mock target at a shooting range in Gangwon Province, east of Seoul, during a South Korea-US joint military drill. (AFP file photo)

As the war between Iran and Israel show no sign of abating, concerns are growing that it could escalate into a wider conflict.

The US conducted military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities last weekend, deploying 30,000‑pound bunker‑buster bombs on underground sites. However, the White House has since paused and returned to diplomacy.

Earlier today, US President Trump even announced a six‑hour ceasefire between Iran and Israel—but quickly retracted it, saying both nations violated the terms.

With violence showing no sign of easing, the world now ponders: where might one stay safe if a global war ensues? Here are the top contenders which score highly on the Global Peace Index.

Iceland: Topping the Global Peace Index for the 17th year running, Iceland is peaceful, neutral, and geographically isolated. It’s never taken part in a war.

New Zealand: Ranked fourth in the peace index with a neutral stance and rugged terrain, New Zealand is unlikely to be targeted in a global conflict. It remains remote and self-sufficient.

Switzerland: Known for long-standing neutrality, Switzerland is heavily fortified with civil shelters and mountain terrain. It’s ranked sixth globally in peace and is less likely to face hostility.

Greenland: Politically neutral and sparsely populated (around 56,000 people), Greenland’s remote location makes it an unlikely target in a large-scale war.

Indonesia: With an independent and non-aligned foreign policy, Indonesia generally avoids global military entanglements, adding to its safety during potential conflict.

Tuvalu: This tiny Pacific island of just 11,000 inhabitants has minimal infrastructure and low strategic value, making it unattractive to aggressors.

Argentina: Rich in wheat and other staples, Argentina could endure global food shortages caused by nuclear winter, aiding its survival prospects.

Bhutan: Neutral since 1971 and landlocked in mountainous terrain, Bhutan is naturally shielded and easily defended from external threats.

Chile: Stretching along 4,000 miles of coast and possessing good infrastructure and food sources, Chile is well-equipped to sustain its population during crises.

Fiji: More than 2,700 miles from Australia, Fiji has no large military, dense forests, and relies on natural resources—making it a peaceful refuge.

South Africa: With fertile land, abundant water, and modern infrastructure, South Africa could maintain food and resource security in a global emergency.

Antarctica: Its extreme southern location places it far from nuclear powers. With around 14 million sq km of land, it offers space for refuge—although its freezing climate poses survival challenges.

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The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d...

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