Trump

The U.S. military claims it has successfully begun enforcing a blockade of Iranian ports, escalating tensions with Iran. The Islamic Republic has threatened regional strikes. Recent talks between the U.S. and Iran ended without an agreement, but President Donald Trump suggested a second round could take place in the next two days. Meanwhile, Lebanon and Israel opened their first direct diplomatic talks in decades in Washington, as fierce fighting between the Israeli military and Hezbollah militants rocks southern Lebanon. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio took part, joining the Israeli and Lebanese ambassadors to the U.S.

There's been a holdup on Capitol Hill in advancing the renewal of a program that lets U.S. spy agencies pore over foreigners’ calls, texts and emails. House Republican leaders hoped to advance the legislation Wednesday, but an initial procedural step has been delayed. Rank-and-file members have pushed back despite a pressure campaign that included a trip to the White House and direct involvement from CIA Director John Ratcliffe. A key part of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act allows American spy agencies to collect and analyze overseas communications without a warrant. The program expires Monday. Critics want changes to safeguard Americans’ communications.