Updated

JERUSALEM -- The Israeli government has dropped a threat to issue lengthy deportation orders against journalists aboard a Gaza-bound flotilla.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday that he ordered authorities to find a formula for the reporters if they are on a flotilla that violates Israel's entry laws.

On Sunday, Israel said any journalist caught on board could face deportation and a 10-year ban from the country.

Journalists say they should be allowed to cover a legitimate news story. Israel said the media would be complicit in an illegal breach of its naval blockade of Gaza.

A year ago, Israel raided a similar flotilla. Nine Turkish activists who clashed with Israeli naval commandos were killed.