El Salvador's Leader Defends Controversial Gang Crackdown at UN

El Salvador President Bukele defended his administration's gang crackdown during his speech at the U.N. General Assembly, stating that the decisions taken were correct and have transformed the country into a model of security. Despite international criticism over human rights violations and lack of due process, Bukele highlighted the significant decrease in homicides and the improved safety that has allowed Salvadorans to live without fear. While critics argue that innocent people have been swept up in the security blitz, Bukele's security policies remain popular domestically and are likely to be a key focus of his re-election campaign. The president emphasized the country's progress in attracting international visitors and reversing the massive exodus of Salvadorans, aiming for more people to return than leave.