Efforts to convince some 300 Soviet Jews in Berlin to return to Israel have had meager success.
Only about 15 of the former olim who left Israel are said to be willing now to board a flight to Tel Aviv. But others have admitted telling falsehoods about their treatment in Israel.
The 300 Soviet Jews came to Germany in January at the height of the Persian Gulf War, claiming they were escaping Iraqi Scud missiles falling on Israel.
But when their temporary visas expired last month, they refused to return. Many said they were disappointed with Israel, were mistreated there and were forced to settle in the administered territories.
They carry Israeli travel documents, and the Jerusalem government insists they must not be treated as refugees but be made to return to Israel, whose nationals they are.
Israel asked the Germans to make clear to the emigres that they had no chance to become legal residents of Berlin. The Israelis expected that would put an end to an embarrassing situation that was being used by some hostile groups in Berlin to discredit Israel.
The German authorities, anxious to cooperate with Israel but extremely sensitive when dealing with Jews seeking haven, tried gentle persuasion. But they made clear they would never forcibly expel the Jews, who congregated in Berlin.
It appears almost certain that those who refuse to return to Israel will not be expelled and may even get assistance to settle in Germany.
Some who complained against Israel now say that they were encouraged by certain supporters of their cause in Berlin to falsely describe their experiences in Israel.
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