The New York Times

1. Energy Secretary Says Gas Prices May Stay Above $3 Until 2027

   Secretary of Energy Chris Wright’s acknowledgment in a TV interview undercut President Trump’s earlier claim that price increases would be “short-term.”

2. Can U.S. Blockade Iranian-Linked Ships Anywhere in the World? Yes, But …

   Maritime and military law experts say an expansion of the naval blockade announced last week raises legal and practical questions but has ample historical precedent.

3. Hamas Officials Say Group Is Ready to Hand Over Some Weapons

   Two senior Hamas officials in Gaza said the group was prepared to relinquish some automatic rifles and other arms, a concession that falls short of Israeli-U.S. demands.

4. Syrian Billionaires Needed a Favor in Washington. They Invoked the Trump Name.

   The attempt by the Khayyats to influence foreign policy while discussions are underway about potential Trump family deals is an increasingly common feature of the president’s second term.

5. Are Democrats Becoming a Party of Tax Cuts?

   As Democrats try to find a way back to power in Washington, some see tax cuts as a quick and easy way to address affordability. The wonks are freaking out.