Which countries are classified as Non-Nuclear Weapons States?

The classification of Non-Nuclear Weapons States is defined under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). Non-Nuclear Weapons States are those countries that have not manufactured or acquired nuclear weapons prior to the treaty's signing in 1968.

The correct answer includes countries that are recognized as possessing nuclear weapons but have chosen not to adopt this status as part of the NPT framework. India, Israel, Pakistan, and North Korea are all nations that have developed nuclear weapons but are not parties to the NPT, thus they do not fall under the classification of Non-Nuclear Weapons States as defined in the treaty.

In contrast, other groups listed include countries that either possess nuclear weapons or, in the case of Japan, are considered a Non-Nuclear Weapons State due to its renunciation of nuclear arms. However, the question specifically asks to identify Non-Nuclear Weapons States, and thus it is essential to refer to those nations which have not pursued nuclear capabilities as recognized by the NPT. The focus on countries known for having nuclear arsenals further illustrates the clarity required about the different categories of nuclear status.