Militaryגלעד שליט

Gilad Shalit

Gilad Shalit is an Israeli former soldier who was captured by Palestinian militants in 2006 and held by Hamas in Gaza until his release in a 2011 prisoner exchange.

born 1986His 2006 capture by Gaza militantsOver 5 years in Hamas captivityThe 2011 prisoner exchange deal

Born: 28 August 1986, Nahariya
Occupation: sports columnist, military personnel, journalist, investment advisor
Education: Reichman University
Rank: Sergeant Major

Gilad Shalit was born in 1986 in Nahariya

Gilad Shalit was born in Nahariya to Noam and Aviva Shalit. He has an older brother and a younger sister. As a baby he moved with his family to Mitzpe Hila in the Western Galilee, and he holds French citizenship through his grandmother.

He studied at schools in Western Galilee communities. He finished high school at Manor Kabri with distinction, in the science track.

He joined the IDF in July 2005 and served as a gunner in the Armored Corps, following his older brother. On 25 June 2006, militants crossed from Gaza through a tunnel near Kerem Shalom and attacked his tank. Two crew members were killed, and Shalit was lightly wounded and taken into Gaza.

Hamas held him for over 5 years and refused Red Cross visits. His only contact with the outside world was 3 letters, an audio tape and a DVD. He was released on 18 October 2011 in a deal in which Israel freed 1,027 Palestinian prisoners.

After his release he worked as a sports columnist and journalist. Several cities, including Paris, Rome and Miami, made him an honorary citizen.

Gilad Shalit's life in 7 milestones

1986
Born in Nahariya.
2005
Joined the IDF Armored Corps.
2006
Captured near Kerem Shalom and taken into Gaza.
2007
His captors released an audio recording of him.
2008
Named an honorary citizen of Paris and Rome.
2009
Named an honorary citizen of Miami and New Orleans.
2011
Released in a prisoner exchange between Israel and Hamas.

Gilad Shalit served in the military

Shalit served from 2005 as a gunner in Battalion 71 of the 188th Brigade in the Armored Corps, holding the rank of corporal when captured. During his captivity he was promoted up to sergeant first class.