Major world news as of February 2, 2026, centers on U.S. immigration protests against Trump’s policies, ongoing Gaza crisis developments, and new Epstein files release.

U.S. Immigration Protests and Policy Backlash

Nationwide protests continue against President Trump’s immigration crackdown and militarization, with tens of thousands marching in cities including Arizona and others over the weekend, chanting “Abolish ICE” and “No ICE, no KKK.”[1] In Minneapolis, tensions escalate as the Trump administration seeks to de-escalate immigration-related unrest; reports highlight ICE and CBP agents accused of racial profiling, excessive force, and an incident where ICE allegedly executed a man in broad daylight.[2][3] Democrats vow to block a funding bill for Homeland Security due to mass deportation concerns, with both parties raising issues over ICE actions killing American citizens; a general strike occurred Friday.[1][2] Releases include immigrant families from detention in Dilley after protests over inhumane conditions, with Rep. Ilhan Omar posting support.[1] In Texas, Democrats flipped a state senate seat and gained a congressional seat in a special election.[1]

Middle East Developments

Israeli forces plan to reopen the Rafah crossing into Egypt, allowing 150 Palestinians—many sick, wounded children—initial medical evacuations amid prior closures; 12,000 Egyptian medical staff prepare to receive them as part of Trump administration-mediated Israel-Hamas efforts.[1] An Israeli airstrike killed at least 30, including six children in tents, marking one of the deadliest in months despite ceasefire claims.[1]

Iran Protests and Other U.S. News

A statement condemns Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and the crackdown on anti-government protesters as “organized state crime against humanity”; protester Arafan Sultani, sentenced to death, was released on bail.[1] The Justice Department released millions of Epstein investigation records.[2] President Trump announced plans to shut down the Kennedy Center (unofficially renamed).[2] Anti-ICE statements dominated the Grammys, and journalist Don Lemon faced a shocking arrest.[3] Trump participated in a signing event.[4]