The New York Times

1. Iran Again Tightens Its Grip on Shipping in the Strait of Hormuz

   Traffic in the strait has all but halted as Iran renews its attacks, striking two vessels on Wednesday. More than 300 ships linked to Iran have passed through the strait since the war began.

2. How the War Powers Act Could Pressure Trump to End the Iran War

   A decades-old law allows the president to wage war without congressional approval for 60 days, then limits his options for continuing. President Trump may seek to get around it.

3. Iran Says It Seized Two Ships

   Also, China quietly builds an island in disputed waters. Here’s the latest at the end of Wednesday.

4. With Midterms Coming Up, G.O.P. Is Bogged Down in Congress

   Republican majorities are at odds on big issues as the Senate resorts to extraordinary measures to pass homeland security funding over a Democratic blockade.

5. Redistricting Fight Turns to Florida and the Courtroom for Frustrated Republicans

   A victory for Democrats in Virginia has left Republicans grumbling about their strategy and looking to the next phase of a coast-to-coast battle.