Forty Palestinians, freed by Israel under a prisoner swap deal with the Islamist movement Hamas but denied entry to the Palestinian territories, have arrived in Qatar, Turkey, Jordan and Syria, broadcaster Al Jazeera reported Wednesday.
The prisoners were released as part of an exchange on Tuesday that involved freeing 477 Palestinian prisoners for Gilad Shalit, an Israeli soldier who was captured by Hamas more than five years ago, DPA reported.
Of the 40 prisoners sent into exile, 15 went to Syria, 11 to Turkey, one to Jordan and the rest to Qatar.
"It's a historic moment. Not returning home leaves a scar, but we consider all Arab countries our second home," Mohamed Wael, a deportee, told the Doha-based television upon arrival in Qatar.
The broadcaster showed footage from Qatar and Syria of the arrival of the expelled Palestinians, who received a warm and official welcome in both countries.