Rising tensions in the Middle East have sparked fresh concerns about global stability following reports that a British military base in Cyprus was targeted overnight.

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence confirmed that RAF Akrotiri was struck by what is believed to have been a drone attack shortly after midnight local time. Thankfully, no injuries were reported. Officials stated that British forces responded immediately and that security measures across the region remain at their highest level.

The development comes amid growing international strain, after Prime Minister Keir Starmer approved the use of British bases for what he described as a “specific and limited defensive purpose.” The move allows the United States to operate from UK-controlled facilities to target Iranian missile infrastructure, although British forces themselves are not directly engaging in offensive strikes.

Meanwhile, rescue planning is reportedly underway for an estimated 200,000 British nationals currently in the Gulf region.

With the United States and Israel continuing military operations against Iran, and former U.S. President Donald Trump describing the situation as involving “major combat operations,” many people are once again asking a difficult question:

If a wider global conflict were to unfold, where might be the safest places on Earth?

While there is currently no indication of a direct strike against the UK or US mainland, here are several nations often cited for their neutrality, geography, and stability.

Iceland

Frequently ranked as the world’s most peaceful country on the Global Peace Index, Iceland has no standing army and has historically remained outside large-scale wars.

Its remote North Atlantic location could offer insulation from European conflict zones. The country’s small population, strong infrastructure, and renewable energy resources further strengthen its resilience.

Switzerland

Switzerland is synonymous with political neutrality. Landlocked and protected by the Alps, it has maintained non-alignment in major global wars for centuries.

The country is also known for its civil defense preparedness, including extensive fallout shelter systems built during the Cold War era.

New Zealand

Consistently ranking near the top of the Global Peace Index, New Zealand benefits from both political stability and geographic isolation.

Located far from major military flashpoints, its mountainous terrain and agricultural capacity could provide additional protection in the event of prolonged instability.

Tuvalu

Situated between Hawaii and Australia, Tuvalu is one of the world’s smallest and most remote nations, with a population of roughly 11,000 people.

Its distance from strategic military zones may reduce its likelihood of becoming a target. However, limited natural resources could pose challenges in long-term crisis scenarios.

Indonesia

Indonesia traditionally maintains an independent foreign policy and often positions itself as a neutral actor in international affairs.

Its vast archipelago could pose logistical challenges for potential aggressors, while its agricultural and marine resources offer advantages in self-sufficiency.

Bhutan

Since joining the United Nations in 1971, Bhutan has upheld a neutral foreign policy.

Nestled deep within the Himalayas, it offers natural defensive advantages, and its limited global entanglements reduce its exposure to geopolitical flashpoints.

Argentina

Although Argentina has experienced conflict in the past — notably the 1980s Falklands War — it is often cited for its agricultural strength.

The country produces large quantities of wheat and other crops, which analysts suggest could be critical if global supply chains collapse or sunlight is reduced following nuclear fallout.

Chile

Stretching roughly 4,000 miles along South America’s western edge, Chile’s narrow geography, mountainous barriers, and Pacific coastline create natural defensive obstacles.

It also has a comparatively strong infrastructure and access to key natural resources.

Fiji

Fiji ranks well in global peace metrics and maintains a modest military force.

Located thousands of miles from major powers, it combines geographic isolation with fertile land, fisheries, and forest coverage.

South Africa

South Africa possesses abundant freshwater supplies, agricultural capacity, and developed infrastructure.

Its resource management systems and diverse climate zones could help sustain populations during extended disruption.

Antarctica

Though hardly practical for most people, Antarctica’s extreme remoteness makes it one of the least strategically valuable targets on Earth.

Covering approximately 14 million square kilometres and located far from major military infrastructure, it could theoretically avoid direct nuclear strikes. However, its freezing temperatures and limited habitability make survival highly challenging without serious preparation.