Gaza’s Rafah Reopens for Medical Evacuations Amid Violent Ceasefire Tensions – 2/2/2026, 8:28:36 PM

Gaza’s Rafah border crossing with Egypt reopened on February 2, 2026, allowing limited medical evacuations amid an Israel-Hamas ceasefire, though no goods are passing and access remains restricted. Ambulances ferried the first patients from Gaza into Egypt after sunset, following the crossing’s closure since May 2024 when Israeli troops seized it; this step is described as mostly symbolic with few travelers permitted.[1][3][5]

Ongoing Israeli strikes in Gaza killed at least 30 people, including children and a 3-year-old toddler, in tent camps and a police station, escalating ceasefire tensions. Attacks targeted displaced people in Khan Younis’ Muwasi area and other sites, marking one of the deadliest incidents in months despite the truce.[1][5][6]

Mass protests against Trump’s immigration crackdown continue nationwide in the U.S., particularly in Minneapolis, with a father and 5-year-old son released from ICE detention. Demonstrations address inhumane conditions, enforcement actions, shootings, and militarization; the Trump administration seeks de-escalation, while Democrats aim to block related funding bills; a DOJ civil rights probe examines an ICE protester’s death.[3][5][6][7]

U.S.-Iran tensions heighten with warnings of regional conflict, live-fire drills in the Strait of Hormuz, and U.S. warships on alert. Iran blames Trump and Netanyahu for stoking protests; Trump urges a deal to avoid escalation.[6][8]

Epstein files developments include DOJ releases of millions of records, no “hidden tranche” of abusers confirmed, and UK calls for Prince Andrew to testify. Coverage features journalists and survivors’ lawyers.[5][6][7]

Other notable events: Pakistan military reports killing 67-145 Baloch separatists in Balochistan clashes; power outages strike Ukraine amid cold; Democrats flip Texas seats; Iran releases a protester on bail.[5][6]