World News Roundup: Trevi Fountain Fee Implemented, Costa Rican Election, Gaza Border Reopening, and Iran Warns of Regional War
Rome Implements Fee for Trevi Fountain Access
Rome began charging tourists a 2-euro ($2.35) fee to access the Trevi Fountain on Monday, February 2, 2026, according to the Associated Press. The new fee structure aims to raise money and manage the large crowds that gather at the famous landmark. The first tourists to pay the tariff seemed unfazed, considering it a small price for quality access to the fountain. The fee implementation coincides with protests in Milan regarding the presence of U.S. ICE agents in Italy as the 2026 Olympics approach.
Laura Fernández Wins Costa Rica's Presidential Election
In Costa Rica, conservative populist Laura Fernández won the presidential election on Sunday, February 1, 2026, according to preliminary results. Fernández, the handpicked successor of outgoing President Rodrigo Chaves, secured a resounding first-round victory, eliminating the need for a runoff. Fernández promised to continue the aggressive reorienting of the Central American nation's politics initiated by Chaves.
Rafah Border Crossing Between Gaza and Egypt Reopens
The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt reopened on Monday, February 2, 2026, according to NPR. The reopening, a key step in the Israel-Hamas ceasefire agreement, marks the end of a nearly year-long closure. While Israel stated it had allowed the reopening, no crossings had yet occurred as of Monday morning.
Iran Warns of Regional War Amid Rising Tensions with U.S.
Amid a growing U.S. military buildup in the Middle East and hints of a possible attack from President Trump, Iran's supreme leader warned that an attack would spark a "regional war," according to NPR. The U.S. is continuing its military buildup that puts it in position to strike Iran.
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