Global Developments Unfold as Tensions Rise and Policies Shift
Several significant international events unfolded on February 2, 2026, ranging from political shifts in Costa Rica to escalating tensions in the Middle East and new tourism policies in Europe, according to reports from NPR.
Conservative populist Laura Fernández won Costa Rica's presidential election, securing a first-round victory and eliminating the need for a runoff, according to the Associated Press. Fernández, the handpicked successor of outgoing President Rodrigo Chaves, promised to continue the aggressive reorienting of the Central American nation's politics. Preliminary results showed Fernández capturing a resounding win after Sunday's election, according to the Supreme Electoral Tribunal.
Meanwhile, in the Middle East, tensions escalated following threats from U.S. President Trump. Iran's supreme leader warned that an attack by the U.S. would spark a "regional war," according to NPR. The U.S. is continuing its military buildup in the region, putting it in position to strike Iran, according to Michel Martin, host of NPR's Morning Edition.
Amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza, the Rafah border crossing with Egypt was slated to reopen, according to NPR. The reopening of the border, which had been sealed for nearly a year, advances the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, according to NPR.
Also related to Gaza, Jared Kushner's "New Gaza" plan was revealed, outlining a vision that includes loft-style apartments, an off-shore oil and gas rig, advanced industrial zones, and park-lined neighborhoods, according to Aya Batrawy of NPR. However, Palestinians say Kushner's vision erases what's left of their homes.
In Europe, Rome implemented a new fee structure at the Trevi Fountain to manage tourist crowds and raise money. Tourists now have to pay 2 euros ($2.35) to access the fountain, according to the Associated Press. The first tourists to pass through the new ticket check seemed unfazed by the tariff, noting it was a small price to pay for quality access to the fountain, according to Roberto Monaldo of LaPresse.
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