Iran launched ballistic missiles at Gulf targets after joint Israeli‑U.S. strikes, and the United Arab Emirates’ air‑defense network successfully intercepted several projectiles using THAAD and Patriot systems. The missiles were destroyed before reaching their intended sites, but debris from one interception fell in Abu Dhabi, killing a civilian. The incident highlighted the UAE’s layered missile‑defense architecture, which combines high‑altitude kinetic interceptors with lower‑altitude systems and advanced radars. It also underscored the collateral risks inherent in high‑speed missile engagements.

The latest *Uncanny Valley* episode spotlights a growing clash between AI startup Anthropic and the Pentagon over a $200 million defense contract that includes strict prohibitions on domestic surveillance and autonomous weapons. The hosts also dissect the rise of “agentic” versus...