Israel set to withdraw from Arafat compound

The Israeli government today decided to withdraw its forces from inside Yasser Arafat’s compound, but the siege will continue from a short distance away, Israeli radios reported.

The army would submit plans for the retreat around noon and it will take place later in the day, Israel radio said.

About 200 Palestinians were inside the Palestinian leader’s office.

Some of them are wanted by Israel on charges of ordering attacks in which Israelis were killed.

Those who are not on the wanted list could leave the compound at any time and would be allowed to go home, Israeli army radio said.

However those on the wanted list will be arrested if they emerged.