Statement by the Israel Defense Forces, 10 May 2002.

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The Crisis in the Church of Nativity has Come to an End

Today, after 38 days, the crisis in the Church of Nativity in Bethlehem has come to an end.

Earlier this morning 13 wanted terrorists fortified inside the Church have left it and were checked by IDF Forces before departing for Cyprus

In addition, 26 wanted terrorists were escorted out of the church and were relocated in the PA controlled area in the Gaza Strip.

As well, 85 Palestinians were transferred from the church for a brief check after which they will be released.

Inside the church were 90 weapons: Kalashnikov rifles, M16s and other guns. In addition, ammunition, knives and some communication equipment were found.

The Palestinian coordination team transferred the weaponry and ammunition, found inside the church to American government representatives.

The IDF spokesperson notes that throughout the negotiations the IDF was consistent in respecting the sanctity of the church and reached the solution in peaceful ways.

Results of IDF Searches in the Church of Nativity and the IDF Departure from Bethlehem

At the request of the priests, IDF forces entered the Church of Nativity in order to search for weapons inside the church.

During the search weapons were found, and 40 explosive charges that were hidden within walls and in corners of rooms. Several improvised explosives were found hidden behind closets.

During the limited time given to IDF to execute the searches, 25 explosive devices were neutralized, the remaining devices were marked by IDF.

IDF Spokesperson notes that the neutralizing of the explosives left behind the terrorists prevented a great risk to the lives of the priests within the church. The mere discovery of these explosive devices proves beyond all doubt that the terrorists blatantly desecrated the holy site.

At this time IDF forces have completed their withdrawal from the city Bethlehem.

Pictures of the weapons found in the church and the withdrawal of IDF forces can be obtained at the IDF Spokesperson Filming Unit.