The Headlines
On October 26, 1980, the Iran-Iraq War escalated dramatically. Iraqi forces launched a devastating missile attack on the Iranian city of Dizful, killing over 100 civilians. The assault targeted oil infrastructure and foreign cargo ships, sinking three and igniting two others, resulting in at least 20 additional deaths. It was a brutal reminder of how quickly global tensions could erupt—and how deeply they could scar communities.
🎶 The Soundtrack
While the Middle East burned, the airwaves told a different story.
- #1 US Song: “Woman in Love” by Barbra Streisand
- #1 UK Song: “Don’t Stand So Close to Me” by The Police
Two tracks, worlds apart—one aching with romance, the other pulsing with tension. A fitting echo of the day’s duality.
🏃♀️ A Lighter Note
In New York City, Grete Waitz of Norway won her third straight NYC Marathon, clocking in at 2:25:41.3. Alberto Salazar took the men’s title with a blazing 2:09:41. In a year of conflict, their endurance became a symbol of human resilience.
🧠 Capsule Phrase
“October 26, 1980: missiles fell, records broke, and Barbra sang through it all.”