Trump Administration Addresses Pardons, Deportations, and Red Sea Attacks

Donald Trump has raised concerns over Joe Biden's alleged use of autopen for presidential pardons, despite past presidents using similar technology. There is no evidence Biden used autopen for pardons. The Trump administration defended its deportation flights of alleged gang members, stating the flights were already over international waters when a federal judge ordered their return. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt asserted federal courts lack jurisdiction over presidential foreign affairs conduct and the Alien Enemies Act. President Trump declared the U.S. would hold Iran responsible for Houthi attacks in the Red Sea. This follows U.S. airstrikes against the Houthis. U.S. crude oil futures rose 0.6% to $67.58 per barrel, and Brent crude rose 0.62% to $71.02 per barrel. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated the U.S. campaign will continue until Houthi attacks cease. Taiwan's President William Lai addressed the Yushan Forum in Taipei, emphasizing Taiwan's role in restructuring global democratic supply chains. American Institute in Taiwan Director Raymond Greene affirmed the U.S. commitment to Indo-Pacific security and assisting Taiwan's self-defense capabilities.