10 safest countries to be in if World War III were to break out

Amid the current geopolitical situation around the world, especially the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran as well as the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, fear of World War III looms, and people across the globe are seeking havens amid this period of uncertainty.

Thankfully, there are still some countries around the world that could offer refuge if WWIII becomes a reality. Let us take a look at the 10 safest countries to be in if WWIII were to break out.

1. Antarctica

While technically not a country, it's hard to deny that Antarctica could be considered a haven in the event of a nuclear war. According to the Irish Star, the icy wilderness could be one of the safest havens due to its remote location at the Earth's southernmost point, making it strategically insignificant.

It spreads across 5.4 million square miles of untouched land, and could comfortably shelter thousands of refugees from the war.

2. Iceland

Like Antarctica, Iceland is also a potential sanctuary from a possible war, as it is nestled far up north.

The country is known as one of the most peaceful nations globally, and it has reportedly never engaged in any war or invasion.

The Icelandic government has reportedly inked a bilateral agreement with Ukraine, though its support is confined to funding and minimal transportation, the outlet reported.

3. New Zealand

New Zealand can also be considered a safe haven down under. According to the Global Peace Index, the nation ranks second and has maintained a neutral position in most conflicts, according to the Irish Star.

A notable feature of the island country is its extremely mountainous terrain, providing a natural defense against potential invasions.

The New Zealand government has shown support for Ukraine, both financially and in actions against Russia at the International Court of Justice, per the outlet.

4. Switzerland

Switzerland also makes the list of countries likely to survive a nuclear war. The country has maintained neutrality since World War II, and its landscape provides a sense of protection from different threats, per the outlet.

Moreover, Switzerland also has a significant number of nuclear fallout shelters.

The country hasn't offered aid to either Russia or Ukraine, and that makes it less likely to be seen as a threat by Vladimir Putin.

Meanwhile, some have accused the nation of favoring Russia, as the Swiss government blocked the delivery of Swiss-made weapons and ammo purchased by other European countries, the Irish Star reported.

5. Greenland

Greenland, the world's largest island which is an autonomous territory in the Kingdom of Denmark, will most probably never be a real target of any global superpower.

The island's remote location, political neutrality, and a population of just 56,000 people add to its safety.

6. Argentina

The South American nation is well-positioned to survive a famine that could follow a nuclear conflict.

Argentina can be considered one of the safest havens despite getting involved in conflicts in the past, especially the Falklands War in 1982.

The country reportedly has an abundance of crops available, ensuring a substantial reserve in case of WWIII, per the outlet.

7. Bhutan

Bhutan has declared itself neutral in any potential conflicts since joining the United Nations in 1971.

Moreover, the country's landlocked status and mountainous terrain make it easier to defend. 

8. Chile

Chile, the vast South American nation that stretches over 4,000 miles, could serve as a bridge between Moscow and Madrid.

Moreover, the country boasts a diverse range of crops and natural resources that would ease survival efforts.

Furthermore, the nation's infrastructure is considered the most advanced in all of South America.

9. Indonesia

Indonesia, a Southeast Asian nation, has declared its intention to remain neutral in any conflict, per the outlet.

Achmed Sukarno, Indonesia's first president, described the country's foreign policy as "free and active."

Moreover, officials have said that they act independently within international affairs, with their primary concern being world peace.

10. Tuvalu

Tuvalu is an island situated halfway between Hawaii and Australia. It is home to a mere 11,000 people.

The country's weak infrastructure and limited natural resources make it an unlikely target for any aggressors, as per reports.