Blasting Bullhorns and Water Cannons, Chinese Ships Wall Off the Sea

We know because we were there. This boat was carrying Times journalists off the island of Palawan, in the Philippines, looking at how China was imposing its territorial ambitions on the South China Sea.

The Wrecking-Ball Caucus: How the Far Right Brought Washington to Its Knees

Right-wing Republicans who represent a minority in their party and in Congress have succeeded in sowing mass dysfunction, spoiling for a shutdown, an impeachment and a House coup.

In Hospitals, Viruses Are Everywhere. Masks Are Not.

Amid an uptick in Covid infections, administrators, staff and patients are divided over the need for masks in health care settings.

Clams Ruled This Town Until the Crabs Moved In

Goro, on the Adriatic Sea, is famous for its clams — essential for the beloved spaghetti alle vongole. But an infestation of crabs is threatening the town’s cash crop.

Gold Bullion and Halal Meat: Inside the Menendez Investigation

Federal prosecutors have accused Senator Robert Menendez of New Jersey and his wife, Nadine, of accepting bribes in exchange for official actions by Mr. Menendez.

A Day Care Death and the Dilemma Over How to Crack Down on Drugs

Fentanyl use is increasingly out in the open, and increasingly fatal. But New Yorkers are divided over what to do: decriminalize it or make more arrests.

Gold’s Deadly Truth: Much Is Mined With Mercury

Ten years after an international treaty to ban mercury, the toxic metal continues to poison. The reason might have to do with your wedding ring.

TV Networks’ Last Best Hope: Boomers

Viewers have fled prime-time lineups for streaming outlets, with one notable exception: people over 60.

Menendez Accused of Brazen Bribery Plot, Taking Cash and Gold

The governor of New Jersey called on Senator Robert Menendez to resign. The senator stepped down from his chairmanship of the Foreign Relations Committee.

Mexico Feels Pressure of Relentless Migration From South America

The surge of migrants trekking north mostly from South America has placed increasing pressure on Mexico as the country applies a range of tactics to quell arrivals.

Inside the Deal to Free 5 American Prisoners in Iran

U.S. negotiators say the release of the prisoners is proof that even fierce adversaries can sometimes find their way to an agreement. But the deal almost didn’t happen.

For South Korea’s Senior Subway Riders, the Joy Is in the Journey

The fare is free for those older than 65, and so some retired people spend their days riding the trains to the end of the line.