Pics du jour

🇮🇱🇮🇷 Israel launched a retaliatory airstrike on military targets in Iran. US and Israeli officials say the pre-dawn airstrikes, carried out early on Saturday, focused on Iran's air defense system, missile and drone bases, and weapon production sites across three regions: Tehran, Ilam, and Khuzestan. Israeli officials characterize the airstrikes as retaliation for Iran's massive ballistic missile attack on October 1. Iran’s government says it defeated the Israeli attack, which only caused "limited damage.” It marks the first time in history Israel’s military has openly attacked Iran.

🗳️ The presidential candidates have narrowed their campaigns to mostly swing states. Since Vice President Harris became the Democratic nominee on August 5, both her and former President Trump have spent the most time in Pennsylvania and Michigan, while entirely avoiding events in 36 non-swing states. Outside of in-person events, both candidates’ last-minute online campaigns are in full swing, including Trump’s appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience on Friday.

🎮🗺️ A civilian-made videogame is gaining popularity with the US military and allies. The wargame, called Command: Professional Edition, didn’t originate with a defense contractor or institute, as is typical. Instead, the simulation program was built and marketed by gamers with almost no military background, and rooted in Tom Clancy novels. The game has recently become a surprise hit among military groups, including the US Air Force, Britain’s Strategic Command, and Taiwanese defense analysts, who use it to simulate complex military maneuvers or hypothetical situations such as nuclear warfare.