Global World News Digest
Multi-Source Editorial Roundup • Monday, 2 February 2026
Relief for patients leaving Gaza as Rafah opens, but thousands still wait
Israeli restrictions mean only five Palestinians allowed to leave Gaza for treatment via Rafah crossing on first day.
France adopts 2026 budget after two no-confidence votes fail
New budget includes a $7.6m military spending increase and aims to cut the deficit to 5 percent by end of 2026.
‘False narrative’: Families challenge Trump’s 75-country US visa suspension
Lawsuit argues US administration misuses claims of ‘public charge’, ‘discriminating’ against residents of 75 countries.
UN welcomes reopening of Gaza’s Rafah border with Egypt
Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric says the United Nations welcomes the reopening of Gaza’s Rafah border with Egypt.
Pakistan fans endorse boycott of T20 World Cup match against India
Pakistan says it will boycott its T20 World Cup match against India on Feb 15 in Sri Lanka, risking a points forfeit.
Trump to slash US tariffs on India from 50 percent to 18 percent
Donald Trump had slapped India with a punitive 25% tariff for buying Russian oil on top of a 25% ‘reciprocal’ tariff.
As EU tightens borders, Spain legalizes 500,000 migrants
Spain will provide a legal pathway for residency for migrants already living in the country.
Democrats win special elections in Texas. How significant is it for Trump?
US president dismisses Taylor Rehmet’s Texas State Senate victory as a ‘local’ race.
How important is the reopening of Gaza’s Rafah crossing?
The Rafah border crossing is once again operational as part of the US-brokered ‘ceasefire’.
The next stage of the Gaza genocide has begun
Recent remarks by former US State Secretary Mike Pompeo herald the next phase of Israel’s genocidal project: erasure.
Italy adds a 2-euro ticket to get closer to Trevi Fountain
It will now cost visitors two euros ($2.36) to get close enough to the Trevi Fountain to toss more coins into it.
Syrian forces deploy in Hasakah under ceasefire agreement with SDF
Syrian forces move into the northeastern city, which was previously under the control of the Kurdish-led SDF.
Trump and Petro clash over how best to uproot Colombia’s cocaine crops
As Gustavo Petro prepares to face Donald Trump in Washington, Colombia’s anti-drug strategy is under intense scrutiny.
5-year-old Liam Ramos and father released from immigration detention
Five-year-old Liam Ramos and his father have been released from a US immigration detention facility.
Modi to Kevin Rudd: How Epstein files set off a storm far beyond the US
Latest files include emails and messages between Epstein and powerful men in India, UK, Australia and Slovakia.
Israeli strikes hit two more south Lebanon villages amid ‘ceasefire’
Israeli strikes destroyed buildings in southern Lebanon in the latest attacks to occur amid a so-called “ceasefire.”
Zelenskyy warns of ‘logistics terror’ as Russia hits Ukraine railway
Railway firm warns that routes in eastern Ukraine are becoming increasingly ‘high risk’, urges travellers to take buses.
Has the Trump administration overplayed its spin?
Official lies after an ICE killing begin to backfire.
Getting resources for Sudan is a ‘race against time’
‘Lack of resources in Sudan is very worrying’
How Balochistan attacks threaten Pakistan’s promises to China, Trump
Balochistan is at the heart of Pakistan’s economic promises to US and China. The attacks are a reminder of the risks.
Israel’s Rafah border scheme risks Gaza patients’ lives
Israel is “reopening” Gaza’s Rafah border crossing but limiting transit to 50 patients daily.
Winter Olympics 2026: All to know about Milan-Cortina Games in Italy
Ice hockey, skating, skiing & snowboarding events take centre stage as Games return to Alps for first time in 20 years.
Iran’s economy falters as internet shutdown hits people, businesses hard
The state-imposed blackout has disconnected Iranians from the world and choked off businesses.
Bangladesh court sentences ex-PM Hasina, UK lawmaker niece in graft case
Verdict comes ahead of elections on February 12 with ousted Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League barred from taking part.
Balochistan to Bangladesh: Why Pakistan is boycotting India World Cup match
Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has blamed India for recent attacks in Balochistan.