Bedouin Sheikh Salam Hozeil of the Bedouin town of Rahat, north of Be'er Sheva, is determined to continue a campaign to bring attention to the plight of kidnapped Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit, who was taken captive by Gaza terrorists three years ago, in spite of threats and violence. On Sunday night, signs at his Be'er Sheva protest tent calling for Shalit's release were defaced by swastikas and other graffiti. Late last week, gunfire was directed at Hozeil's home in Rahat. Nobody was injured in the attack.

Hozeil first received death threats one week ago, after setting up a tent at the Beit Kama intersection in the Negev. He believes the threats originated with members of the Islamic Movement, some of whom serve in local councils.

He continues to collect signatures in Be'er Sheva, where almost 3,000 people have stopped at his tent near the Central Bus Station and signed his petition. Next week, he plans to do the same in Ashkelon.