Israeli President Shimon Peres visited the Shalit home in Mitzpe Hila this morning in the first official visit since the return of Gilad Shalit. After the meeting, Noam, Gilad’s father, said that Peres praised Gilad for surviving “years of loneliness and complete uncertainty” in Hamas captivity. Noam added that Gilad is grateful for the public’s support.
Peres, who spoke with Noam and his wife Aviva, did not speak to the press. After he left, Noam said Gilad was aware of the public’s support and the many visitors who have arrived at the family home in recent days, bringing flowers, candy and personal souvenirs.
“He has seen the people and appreciates it. He knows about the widespread public support during the years of the struggle. He is aware of it and is grateful for it,” Noam said.
Regarding Gilad’s reaction to the president’s visit, Noam said, “He doesn’t talk much but feels the appreciation, as was also demonstrated by the fact that the president personally came here. He could have also invited him to his residence in Yerushalayim.”
Commenting on his condition, Noam noted that Gilad was feeling good and mainly wishes to return to normal. “The main thing that we ask for at this time, and so does Gilad, is to quickly return to old habits – playing basketball and ping-pong, watching television. That’s the only thing we are seeking and we hope the public will understand this.”
He added that the medical examinations that Gilad is slated to undergo in the near future were routine.
On Sunday, police removed the roadblock that was placed near Shalit’s home and left the premises. The barrier kept onlookers and reporters from getting too close to the IDF soldier. “We are leaving the site, but a police car will patrol the area every hour,” a police official said.
{Yair Alpert-Matzav.com Israel}
The father, in the effort to return everything to normal, should not interfere with positive changes Gilad might want to make as a result of his ordeal.
The main thing that we ask for at this time, and so does Gilad, is to quickly return to old habits – playing basketball and ping-pong, watching television. Thats the only thing we are seeking and we hope the public will understand this.
I don’t think Chacham Ovadiah consented to the release of 1027 terrorists so Gilad could return to T.V., Ping-pong and Basketball. The important question that should be going through Gilad’s head is what has he been missing the last 5 years in Hamas Captivity? If the answer to that is Ping-Pong, T.V and Basketball then we are all in trouble.
V’atem Hadeveikim Ba’Hashem Elokeichem Chayim Kulchem Hayom. If an effort to reaffirm faith and observance to G-d is not initiated then Gilad is still a captive and not a free man.
Gilad—-We believe that you will make a KIddush Hashem out of the sacrifice that was made to secure your release and prove that the deal was well worth it.