International News Update: February 3, 2026
Several significant events unfolded across the globe on February 2, 2026, ranging from cultural celebrations in Brazil to renewed conflict in Ukraine and political activism concerning Iran.
In Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, thousands of people gathered on a beach to honor Yemanjá, the Afro-Brazilian goddess of the sea, according to Euronews. The annual ceremony, often called "Brazil's wildest wishing well party," drew devotees dressed in white who stepped into the sea to the rhythm of drums. Flowers and small offerings were carried into the water as prayers were spoken for well-being, protection, and harmony. Yemanjá is a key figure in Candomblé and Umbanda.
Meanwhile, the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt partially reopened, allowing limited medical evacuations and family returns after months of pressure, Euronews reported. Emotional reunions took place at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis as families reunited with relatives who had traveled months earlier for medical treatment. Egyptian officials stated that approximately 150 people were expected to leave Gaza and about 50 to enter on the first day, with strict limits in place. Ambulances transported sick and injured patients into Egypt, where medical screening was conducted before further transfer.
In Ukraine, Kyiv residents sought shelter in metro stations as Russian air strikes resumed overnight, ending a brief pause, according to Euronews. The attacks, which lasted for hours, injured at least three people. The Soviet-era metro network has long served as a civil defense shelter, with platforms providing sleeping areas and access to water and toilets during heavy bombardment. The pause in air strikes had been agreed upon by Washington and Moscow.
Elsewhere, Iranians in the diaspora are targeting the children of Iran's ruling elite, many of whom live lavishly abroad, demanding their deportation, NPR reported. According to NPR, these activists are seeking to punish the ruling elite by going after their family members.
In the United States, the release of Melania Trump's 2024 memoir has garnered attention, particularly from dedicated fans. Wired reported on the "Melania" superfans who turned up for the opening weekend. The memoir opens with her immigration to America as a 26-year-old model from Slovenia. She became an American citizen ten years later. "And my personal experience dealing with the trials of the immigration process opened my eyes to the difficulties faced by all who wish to become US citizens," she writes in her memoir, according to Wired.
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