Middle East Escalation: Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthis announced a maritime embargo on Saudi shipping, warning of renewed disruption at the Bab el-Mandeb chokepoint and raising fresh pressure on global energy and trade. U.S. Iran War Fallout: The U.S. military identified two soldiers killed in Jordan amid continued strikes and retaliation, as officials warn the conflict’s risks extend across the region. Travel Warning: The State Department issued a “Worldwide Caution” alert for Americans abroad, citing heightened Middle East tensions and the possibility of unforeseen escalation. Gas Prices & Politics: With U.S. gasoline averaging about $4 again as oil prices rise, Democrats are leaning on health care and cost-of-living pressure in midterm messaging, including in Iowa. Election Security Debate: Florida election officials pushed back on voter-roll concerns, saying safeguards keep registration accurate and ballots handled properly. Dem Party Fight in Michigan: AIPAC is pouring a record $30M into the Michigan Senate primary to back Haley Stevens against Abdul El-Sayed, highlighting how Gaza-era divisions are reshaping Democratic politics. Statehouse & Local Governance: Arlington County planners flagged safety and traffic concerns over a proposed 250-foot arch near Arlington National Cemetery, while Maine Democrats rallied around Troy Jackson as the party’s Senate nomination narrowed. Tariffs Watch: Trump’s temporary global tariff authority is set to expire Friday, with the administration signaling a shift toward more permanent levies.