Latin America Sees Political Shifts Amidst International Tensions
Several significant political and humanitarian developments unfolded across Latin America and involving the region in early 2026. Costa Rica elected right-wing populist Laura Fernández as president, while Mexico pledged aid to Cuba despite US pressure. Meanwhile, the reopening of the Rafah crossing offered limited relief to patients in Gaza.
Laura Fernández of the Sovereign People party won Costa Rica's presidential election in a landslide on Sunday, according to the Guardian. Fernández's victory signals a shift to the right in Latin American politics. Her campaign focused on cracking down on rising violence linked to the cocaine trade. Álvaro Ramos, a center-right economist and Fernández's nearest rival, conceded defeat as results became clear.
In a separate development, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum pledged to send humanitarian aid to Cuba this week, the Guardian reported. This commitment comes despite efforts by the United States to cut off oil access to the island nation. Sheinbaum stated that Mexico was exploring all diplomatic avenues to send fuel to the Cuban people. This move follows an order signed by former President Trump threatening tariffs on countries that sell oil to Cuba.
Beyond the Americas, the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt reopened on Monday, February 2, 2026, Al Jazeera reported. However, only five patients were allowed to exit Gaza for medical treatment on the first day, leaving hundreds, if not thousands, waiting for aid. According to Al Jazeera, the reopening offered limited relief to injured Palestinians desperate for medical assistance. Mohammed Abu Mostafa, along with his mother Randa, was among the few Palestinians allowed to leave Gaza via Rafah for treatment on Monday.
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