The IDF also presents the names of the 13 deportees and the reasons for their deportation. Due to the indecision of the Italian government, which had been the planned “receiving” country, they have been flown from Tel Aviv to Cyprus, where they are confined to one floor of a tourist hotel, while they await transfer to another country.

Delays in the negotiations to end the siege were compounded by the difficulties in determining where the deportees were to go. After Italy decided the matter was too complicated, Cyprus volunteered to accept them – temporarily. It is hoped that a special meeting of E.U. Foreign Ministers, this Monday, may find a solution for the exiles.

The European Union, the United States and the Vatican brokered the decision which ended the siege.

Pope John Paul II , speaking from the Vatican, expressed his pleasure that the siege had ended and religious observance returned. He also hopes for Palestinians and Israelis to strive for mutual trust.

E.U. officials have not yet been able to state with certainty where their ultimate destination may be or if they will be allowed to be freed.

Israeli Foreign Minister Shimon Peres has said that Israel maintains the right to request their extradition.