The father of kidnapped IDF soldier Gilad Shalit says he sees no end in sight for his son's captivity by Hamas terrorists in Gaza, despite all the talk about negotiations drawing closer to an agreement.

Noam Shalit and his wife Aviva spoke during a ceremony to kick off the Desert Queen expedition at the Erez Crossing into the region where their son is being held. "Just like your journey, our journey began not far from here," said Noam Shalit, "1,221 long days ago. It is long and exhausting, and we still cannot see its end."