With global tensions on the rise, there are mounting concerns about the onset of World War 3, and if it does occur, certain locations could prove particularly hazardous.
In recent developments, President Donald Trump has expressed a desire to assert control over Greenland, threatening tariffs on those who resist the takeover.
Simultaneously, the US military has detained Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, who is now facing four charges related to alleged narcotic trafficking.
Iran has also issued a stern warning to the US regarding involvement in ongoing mass protests, even broadcasting an assassination threat against Trump on state television.
In Europe, a NATO chief has advised the continent to be ready for potential conflict with Russia, especially given the ongoing war with Ukraine.
All these factors contribute to a growing sense of unease about the likelihood of a third world war.
Based on an analysis by the Express, certain regions are deemed especially dangerous if a global conflict erupts.
Predictably, the USA is high on the list. Given its potential central role in the conflict, avoiding US soil could be prudent due to possible retaliatory strikes.
Despite the current pause on military actions against Iran, any escalation involving significant military powers could make US locations targets on a global scale.
An expert has identified 15 US cities as likely targets in the event of such a conflict.
In the Middle East, Israel’s long-standing conflict with Palestine, compounded by missile attacks from Iran, intensifies regional tensions.
Iran, having both launched and been targeted by missiles, remains embroiled in conflict.
After accusations of nuclear material production, the US bombed Iran, which subsequently retaliated with its own strikes against Israel. Hence, Iran might not be a safe haven during a global conflict.
Russia, amidst its prolonged conflict with Ukraine, poses a threat due to its antagonism towards the West, NATO, and the UK.
President Vladimir Putin recently cautioned European nations that any European aggression could result in swift and severe consequences for the continent, according to Reuters.
Putin stated, “If Europe suddenly wants to start a war with us and starts it,” adding, “Then it would end so swiftly for Europe that Russia would have no one left to negotiate with.”
Taiwan, a contested territory, faces threats from China, which seeks to “reunify” the two nations. President Xi Jinping has emphasized this goal, asserting that reunification with Taiwan is inevitable, as reported by the BBC.
In a New Year’s address, President Xi reiterated the significance of this objective, declaring: “The reunification of our motherland, a trend of the times, is unstoppable.”
Taiwan, however, stands firm on maintaining its independence, particularly after recent Chinese military exercises near the island, as noted by Reuters.
Should conflict arise, China might make a decisive move, prompting potential retaliation.
North Korea, an ally of Russia, has demonstrated its missile capabilities globally, making it another location to avoid during wartime.
As for the likelihood of such a conflict, Professor Alex Wellerstein from Stevens Institute of Technology shared his insights on the potential for war.
In a discussion with the Daily Mail last year, he remarked: “If the adversary is Russia and their goal is to disable US retaliation, command centers and ICBM sites will be hit first. If the attacker is a rogue actor, symbolic or densely populated areas might be targeted instead.”
Regarding safer places, there are several options worth considering.