NEW YORK, July 19 (Reuters) - The New York Times reported the following stories on its front page on Thursday. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy. Democratic leaders on Wednesday abruptly halted consideration of a major Pentagon policy measure, heading off the introduction of competing Iraq plans. --- Moktada al-Sadr is reaching out to Iraqis on the street while distancing himself from the increasingly unpopular government. --- The decline of Senator John McCain's campaign and the rising profile of Fred D. Thompson are prompting Republican candidates to rewrite their strategies. --- A steam pipe exploded near Grand Central Terminal in Midtown Manhattan. More than 30 people were injured, two critically. --- The generous health benefits paid by automakers will be a crucial sticking point in union negotiations. --- Hundreds have been snatched by Pakistan's military and intelligence services since 2001, rights activists say.
