Shalit returned to Israel just before noon on Tuesday and later reunited with his family at the Tel Nof Airbase in central Israel, where he boarded a helicopter that flew him home.
While in the vehicle, Shalit gestured by putting his hand on his heart and after minutes opened the door to his home.
The street where the Shalits live was blocked by police out of concern that the crowds would attempt to converge on the residence in an attempt to see Gilad.
"We will be here as long as needed," Police Northern District commander Roni Atiyah said. "So long as the family and community ask us to block the entrance to the house, we will."
IAF helicopter carrying Shalit family arrives at Mitzpe Hila (Photo: Hagai Aharon)
Psychologists have advised the Shalit family to retrieve the family home to the state it was vefore Gilad was kidnapped . He may also find relief in familiar smells of the house. Friends of the family said that Aviva has yet to start cooking but that all the necessary ingredients and Gilad's favorites have already been purchased.
After meeting his grandson, Zvi Shalit said Gilad was in "better condition than we feared." Describing the family reunion at the Tel Nof base, he said: "Gilad spoke very quietly and said he was tired and wanted to sleep."
Shalit underwent extensive medical examinations after he felt ill on his way to Tel Nof. IDF medical teams decided that despite the temporary setback, Shalit will fly home to Mitzpe Hila.
Earlier, the release of the first images of Shalit brought tears to the eyes of many Mitzpe Hila residents, prompting some to start dancing with joy.
Shimshon Libman, head of the campaign for Gilad's release, said: "I am glad that our struggle for Gilad's return has ended successfully."
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