His personal bodyguards were not on hand because they had been arrested recently in Belgrade, charged with not having permission to carry weapons.

Mr. Selimi replied, "We have permission to carry weapons, but we will come with you in our own car if you think it is incorrect."

Hospital security officers have sought permission to carry weapons for at least 10 years, and the proposal has been opposed by both Mayor Giuliani and former Mayor David N. Dinkins.