ANKARA (AA) - Here are the main topics Anadolu's English Desk plans to cover on Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026 (coverage may change depending on developing/breaking stories):
Iran-US tensions
Tensions between Iran and the US remain at a high level following a series of escalatory moves by both sides amid deepening US military deployment in the Middle East and Iran’s announcement of planned joint naval exercises with China and Russia in the northern Indian Ocean region in mid-February.
Expected reopening of Rafah border crossing
The Rafah border crossing between Egypt and Gaza is expected to reopen in both directions after two years of closure, initially allowing limited movement of people, according to the Israeli army, while the head of the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza said the crossing will officially reopen on Monday, with Sunday designated as a trial day.
Iraqi parliament to elect country’s president
Iraq’s parliament will convene to elect the country’s president, ending days of uncertainty after lawmakers postponed a previously scheduled session. The agenda of the session includes administering the constitutional oath to several lawmakers and holding a vote to elect the president, a mostly ceremonial role reserved for a Kurd.
European reactions to US-Iran tensions
As the US builds up its military forces in the region following protests across Iran and the threat of a possible US-Iran war escalates, reactions and comments from European states are expected.
General elections in Costa Rica
Costa Ricans will vote to elect a president and members of the country's Legislative Assembly for four-year terms. Laura Fernandez of the ruling Pueblo Soberano party has been leading in polls. Other candidates include Alvaro Ramos from the Partido Liberacion Nacional, Claudia Dobles from the Coalicion Agenda Ciudadana, and Ariel Robles from Frente Amplio.
Nepalese president kicks off 4-day trip to Japan
Nepal’s President Ramchandra Paudel is visiting Japan for four days to mark the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. He is scheduled to meet with Emperor Naruhito and Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
India unveils annual budget
Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveils the budget for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. The government is expected to also announce growth expectations.
Expected trilateral talks between Russia, Ukraine, US in Abu Dhabi
Developments on part of Moscow and Kyiv will be followed as Emirati capital Abu Dhabi is expected to host second round of trilateral peace talks between Russia, Ukraine, and US to end Russia-Ukraine war. While talks are tentatively scheduled for Sunday, officials have hinted at possible changes in timing and location, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy saying US-Iran tensions could have an effect.
SPECIAL REPORT
Costa Rica votes with security in mind as conservatives poised to hold power
Report on Costa Rica's presidential and congressional election that polls suggest will strongly favor continuity under the ruling conservative camp aligned with President Rodrigo Chaves.
It outlines the main candidates, polling figures, voter turnout expectations, and the broader context of rising crime, security policy, economic performance, and US influence on Costa Rica’s law-and-order agenda.
The story draws primarily on polling data from the Center for Political Research and Studies, official election details, and figures from Costa Rica’s Judicial Investigation Agency, alongside government data on the economy and security assistance.