The New York Times

1. Long Overlooked, Caspian Sea Provides Strategic Trade Route for Iran

   The landlocked body of water has taken on new significance, with Russia shipping military and commercial goods to bolster Tehran’s ability to withstand the U.S. assault.

2. Deadly Israeli Strikes Erode Cease-Fire in Lebanon

   Fighting between Israel and Hezbollah has shown little sign of abating, with Hezbollah also continuing to attack Israeli troops, and both sides accusing the other of violating a U.S.-brokered truce.

3. How Republicans Gained an Edge on the Midterm House Map Over 10 Days

   Republicans are charging ahead in the nation’s redistricting race, and showing new bullishness after months of growing midterm fears.

4. Two Court Decisions Have Unleashed an Era of Perpetual Redistricting

   Four states are considering drawing new maps in the coming weeks. Another dozen or more could join the fray next year.

5. How Minority Districts Fueled the G.O.P.’s Southern Ascendancy in Congress

   The “majority-minority” House districts struck down by the Supreme Court last week sent a surge of Black and Hispanic lawmakers to Congress. They also opened opportunities for the G.O.P.