Israel deports Sudanese migrants

Israel expelled 120 South Sudanese yesterday, starting what could develop into the deportation of thousands of illegal African migrants.

Some 60,000 impoverished Africans, most from Eritrea and Sudan, have slipped into Israel across its border with Egypt since 2005, fleeing repressive regimes and seeking work.

Authorities say the migrants threaten to undermine Israel's Jewish character.

The government launched a campaign last week to round up and expel migrants from South Sudan and other countries that have friendly relations with Israel. It hopes to expel 4,500 Africans.

AP