Axios

Several U.S. Navy ships crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, a U.S. official told Axios

Why it matters: The move, which was not coordinated with Iran, was the first time U.S. warships crossed the strait since the beginning of the war.

Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) plans to force a vote to expel Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) next week over sexual assault and misconduct allegations, Axios has learned. Swalwell denies the allegations.

Why it matters: Democrats are set to respond by moving in turn to expel Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-Texas), who's being investigated by House Ethics over sexual misconduct allegations, two Democratic leadership aides told Axios.

Direct negotiations between the U.S. and Iran, mediated by Pakistan, began in Islamabad on Saturday, according to a White House official.

Why it matters: While the meeting itself is historic — the highest-level engagement between U.S. and Iranian officials since 1979 — the chances for success appear low. Both sides know the risk of failure is renewed war, but have clashing visions for peace.