At least 120 South Sudanese leaving Israel under pressure

Israel is forcing 120 South Sudanese to leave the country as authorities try to whittle the number of illegal immigrants.

Interior Ministry spokeswoman Sabine Haddad says all 120, who are being flown out on Sunday, agreed to leave voluntarily. She says they were told they faced arrest if they did not sign a form agreeing to leave.

She says adults will receive 1,000 euros ($1,300) and minors 500 euros ($650) per person.

Some 60,000 African migrants have slipped into Israel across its southern border with Egypt, fleeing repressive regimes and seeking work. The influx has caused friction with locals and alarmed authorities.

The government launched a campaign last week to round up and expel migrants. First to go are the South Sudanese. Israel and South Sudan have friendly relations.