International News Roundup: Storms, Tensions, and Diplomacy Dominate Headlines
Several significant international events unfolded on February 5, 2026, ranging from a deadly storm in Portugal to diplomatic efforts in the Gulf and ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Portugal grappled with the aftermath of Storm Leonardo, which claimed the life of one man and forced hundreds to evacuate their homes. According to Euronews, the storm battered the country, leaving Alcácer do Sal underwater after the Sado River overflowed. Civil Protection confirmed that a man in his 60s died near Serpa after his car was swept away in floodwater. Emergency teams responded to over 3,300 incidents since Sunday, including floods, fallen trees, and landslides.
Meanwhile, in the Middle East, tensions remained high as Israeli strikes in Gaza resulted in the deaths of at least 24 people, according to health officials. Euronews reported that Israel claimed it killed three militant leaders and others who posed a threat to its forces, stating that some strikes were in response to a Hamas attack that seriously wounded one of its soldiers. The Hamas-run Gaza health ministry reported 21 deaths, including civilians. Both sides accused each other of violating the ceasefire.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited Qatar for energy talks amid rising regional tensions. Speaking in Doha, Merz said concerns over Iran had featured prominently in discussions with Gulf leaders. He called on Tehran to halt what he described as aggressive behavior and to enter talks aimed at easing tensions. According to Euronews, Merz's visit to Doha was part of Germany's efforts to secure energy security, defense partners, and stability amid fears of a wider regional escalation linked to Iran.
In Italy, a child custody row involving Anglo-Australian parents took a new turn. Euronews reported that Italian health experts urged the swift return of three children to their parents, with monitoring in place. Psychiatrists from the Lanciano-Vasto-Chieti Local Health Authority stated that restoring stable family ties was essential for the children.
Finally, US Vice President JD Vance arrived in Milan for the Winter Olympics, leading the US delegation. Vance described the Games as a unifying moment for Americans as 22 heads of state prepared to attend the opening ceremony. He told US athletes that the competition "is one of the few things that unites the entire country," according to Euronews.
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