Russian Drone Strike Kills 15 in Ukraine; SDF Hands Over Al-Hasakah to Syrian Government – 2/3/2026, 8:29:44 AM

Here are the major world news developments from early February 2026:

Armed Conflicts and Attacks

A Russian drone strike hit a minibus in Dnipro, Ukraine, killing at least 15 mineworkers and injuring seven others.[1] In a separate operation, Pakistani military forces concluded a 40-hour counterterrorism operation in Balochistan, resulting in 145 BLA insurgent deaths, though 18 civilians and 18 security personnel also died.[1] Nigeria reported killing a senior Boko Haram commander known as Abu Khalid during a raid in Borno State.[1]

In the Middle East, the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces formally handed over control of Al-Hasakah to Syria’s transitional government as part of a ceasefire agreement.[1] Israel partially reopened the Rafah Crossing between Gaza and Egypt, allowing limited daily passage after it had been closed since May 2024.[1] At least five people, including a 3-year-old child, were killed in Israeli strikes according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.[1]

Political Developments

Costa Ricans elected Laura Fernández of the Sovereign People’s Party as president with 48% of the vote.[1] Tens of thousands gathered in Prague to support President Petr Pavel during his dispute with Foreign Minister Petr Macinka.[1]

Trade and Economics

President Trump and Prime Minister Modi reached a trade deal slashing India’s tariffs to 18%, with Modi agreeing to stop purchasing Russian oil in exchange.[2]

Disasters and Accidents

Morocco evacuated over 50,000 people from Ksar el-Kebir as the Loukkos River overflowed from heavy rain and controlled dam releases, causing power cuts and prompting military rescue operations.[1] Bus accidents across multiple countries resulted in numerous casualties, including five children killed in Russia and nine people killed in Turkey.[1]