Global Events Unfold: Japan Grapples with Record Snowfall, Gaza Border Reopens Amidst Conflict, and Tensions Rise Between Iran and US
Several significant global events unfolded this week, including record-breaking snowfall in Japan, the partial reopening of the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt, the ongoing use of drones in the Sudanese civil war, and escalating tensions between Iran and the United States.
Japan experienced its heaviest snowfall in decades, resulting in at least 30 deaths in the past two weeks, according to Al Jazeera. The extreme weather prompted Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to deploy troops to assist affected areas on Tuesday, as reported by NHK, the Japanese national television. One of the victims was a 91-year-old woman found buried under 300cm (118 inches) of snow outside her home. Aomori city recorded its highest snow accumulation in 40 years.
Meanwhile, the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt partially reopened on Monday, February 2nd, after being closed for over 18 months. Al Jazeera reported that only five medical evacuees were allowed to leave Gaza, and just 12 Palestinians were permitted to return. The delays were reportedly imposed by Israeli authorities. The reopening was intended to alleviate the impact of the prolonged military siege on Gaza.
In Sudan, the civil war that began in April 2023 has seen a significant increase in the use of drones by both the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). According to Al Jazeera, there have been 1,000 drone attacks since the conflict began. The report highlighted how commercially available drones have transformed the nature of the war, proving to be modular, easily concealed, and devastatingly effective. Civilians have borne the brunt of the drone attacks.
Tensions between Iran and the United States are reaching a critical point, with the next seven days potentially determining whether the two nations engage in conflict or find a diplomatic resolution. According to Sky News, the region is heading for a "crunchpoint." Dominic Waghorn, International affairs editor for Sky News, stated that it is "make or break this week for averting war between America and Iran." President Trump reportedly believes Iran is in a difficult position and can only resolve it by making a deal with the US.
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