IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Benny Gantz announced today, Tuesday, 27 Tishrei, that Gilad Shalit will remain in the military until such time he has completed the process of his medical care following his release from Hamas captivity.

The IDF commander stated that only after Shalit completes the medical process will he be discharged, and then turned over to the care of the Ministry of Defense Rehabilitation Department. In addition the commander promised an ‘express lane’ would be opened for Shalit to enable him and the family to circumvent much of the bureaucracy associated with the rehabilitation process and most importantly, obtaining the designation of a disabled veteran, which comes with many benefits that he will receive.

Gilad entered the hospital today for a number of days of tests towards evaluating him and expediting his return to good health.

Ganz arrived at his decision following consultations with senior officials in the IDF Personnel Branch and Medical Branch, signaling everything possible is being done to make Gilad’s return to society as painless as possible.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)