# Gilad Shalit > Israeli writer, soldier, and former hostage **Wikidata**: [Q214821](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q214821) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gilad_Shalit) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/gilad-shalit ## Summary Gilad Shalit is an Israeli writer, soldier, and former hostage who gained international recognition after his release in the 2011 prisoner exchange between Israel and Hamas. He served in the Israel Defense Forces and later became a sports columnist, contributing to journalism and literary works. His experiences as a hostage and his post-release career have made him a notable figure in Israeli society. ## Biography - Born: August 28, 1986 - Nationality: Israeli - Education: Studied at Reichman University - Known for: Being a former Israeli hostage and contributing to sports journalism - Employer(s): Israel Discount Bank Ltd. - Field(s): Journalism, military service, writing ## Contributions Gilad Shalit has contributed to sports journalism as a columnist, providing commentary and analysis on sports events. His military service in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) involved combat and leadership roles, which shaped his perspective on national defense. As a former hostage, he has written about his experiences and the impact of captivity on individuals and society. His literary works reflect his personal and professional experiences, including his time as a hostage and his career in journalism. ## FAQs **What is Gilad Shalit known for?** Gilad Shalit is known for his service in the Israel Defense Forces, his role as a former hostage, and his work as a sports columnist. He gained international attention after his release in the 2011 prisoner exchange between Israel and Hamas. **Where did Gilad Shalit study?** Gilad Shalit studied at Reichman University, an Israeli private, not-for-profit, nonsectarian research university located in Herzliya. **What awards has Gilad Shalit received?** Gilad Shalit has received honorary citizenship titles from Paris, Rome, Miami, New Orleans, Baltimore, and Pittsburgh. These awards recognize his contributions to Israeli society and his role as a former hostage. **What is Gilad Shalit's background in military service?** Gilad Shalit served in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and was involved in combat and leadership roles. His military service included a period as a hostage, which he later wrote about and discussed in his career. **What is Gilad Shalit's current profession?** Gilad Shalit is a sports columnist and a writer. He has contributed to journalism and literary works, reflecting on his experiences as a former hostage and his career in the military. ## Why They Matter Gilad Shalit's experiences as a former hostage have made him a significant figure in Israeli society, influencing discussions about captivity, national defense, and the impact of military service on individuals. His work as a sports columnist and writer has contributed to the broader cultural and literary landscape of Israel. His release in the 2011 prisoner exchange between Israel and Hamas brought international attention to the complexities of hostage situations and the diplomatic efforts involved in their resolution. Shalit's personal narrative and professional contributions have shaped public discourse on these issues, making him a notable voice in both military and civilian spheres. ## Notable For - Former hostage in the 2011 prisoner exchange between Israel and Hamas - Sports columnist and contributor to sports journalism - Writer and author of literary works reflecting personal and professional experiences - Recipient of honorary citizenship titles from multiple cities worldwide - Former military personnel in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) ## Body ### Early Life and Education Gilad Shalit was born on August 28, 1986. He studied at Reichman University, an Israeli private, not-for-profit, nonsectarian research university located in Herzliya. His education provided him with a foundation in academic and professional development, which he later applied in his military and journalistic careers. ### Military Service Shalit served in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and was involved in combat and leadership roles. His military service included a period as a hostage, which he later wrote about and discussed in his career. His experiences in the IDF shaped his perspective on national defense and military service, influencing his contributions to journalism and literature. ### Hostage Experience Gilad Shalit was a former hostage, gaining international recognition after his release in the 2011 prisoner exchange between Israel and Hamas. His captivity and subsequent release brought attention to the complexities of hostage situations and the diplomatic efforts involved in their resolution. His personal narrative has influenced discussions about captivity, national defense, and the impact of military service on individuals. ### Journalism and Writing Shalit is a sports columnist and a writer, contributing to journalism and literary works. His work as a columnist has provided commentary and analysis on sports events, reflecting his expertise and passion for the subject. As a writer, he has reflected on his experiences as a former hostage and his career in the military, contributing to the broader cultural and literary landscape of Israel. ### Awards and Recognition Gilad Shalit has received honorary citizenship titles from Paris, Rome, Miami, New Orleans, Baltimore, and Pittsburgh. These awards recognize his contributions to Israeli society and his role as a former hostage. His recognition in multiple cities highlights his influence and impact on both national and international levels. ### Professional Affiliations Shalit is affiliated with Israel Discount Bank Ltd., an Israeli banking institution, and Reichman University, where he studied. These affiliations reflect his professional connections and contributions to the banking and educational sectors in Israel. His work at Israel Discount Bank Ltd. and his studies at Reichman University have provided him with valuable experiences and opportunities for growth. ## References 1. Integrated Authority File 2. [ג'וב חדש: גלעד שליט מצטרף לבנק דיסקונט. 2016](http://www.ynet.co.il/articles/0,7340,L-4889357,00.html) 3. general catalog of BnF 4. Virtual International Authority File 5. Encyclopædia Britannica Online 6. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013 7. Quora 8. Israeli Music Collection