Peres praises Shalit

President Shimon Peres paid a visit to Gilad Shalit at his Mitzpe Hila home less than a week after he returned from five years and four months captivity in Gaza. Peres expressed his appreciation and admiration for Gilad who succeeded in surviving the harsh conditions he was forced to endure under Hamas captivity. Noam Shalit later told reporters that his son Gilad appreciated the President's visit and the fact that he came to the family's home. Speaking of his son, Noam said Gilad is aware of the huge public support but seeks to return to normal routine as quickly as possible and hopes the public will allow him to do so. Since returning home, Gilad has been spotted going for walks, bike rides and even went with his father for a swim at a beach. During this week he will also undergo further medical tests.