What does it say when this crazy loon is more sensible than the President of the U.S.? Oh, and Syria claims a hand in negotiating the release. But hey, let’s not talk to them! It does no good whatsoever!

TEHRAN, Iran (CNN) — Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has met with some of the 15 British military personnel held in Iranian custody for almost two weeks, shortly after pardoning the group and vowing to set them free.

Iranian state television showed footage of Ahmadinejad shaking hands, smiling and chatting with the detainees who were dressed in suits. One of them was heard to comment in English: “We are grateful for your forgiveness.”

Ahmadinejad joked with one of them: “What kind of compulsory trip were you on?” He added: “I wish you success.” (Watch Ahmadinejad meet British detainess, wish them luck )

An Iranian diplomat in London told The Associated Press that the 15 would be handed over to the British Embassy in Tehran.

One source told the state-run Islamic Republic News Agency IRNA that the Britons will leave Tehran at 8 a.m. Thursday (0430 GMT).

British Prime Minister Tony Blair said the announcement comes “as a profound relief not just to them but to their families that have endured such distress and anxiety over these past 12 days.”

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