Crisis in Egypt

A fog has settled over the city of Jerusalem and steady rain and wind show no sign of abating anytime soon. As we enter another quiet Shabbat, it occurs to me that some family and friends might be wondering about our welfare, since Israel borders Egypt.

Egypt's Day of Rage escalated into more than we anticipated and we are keeping an eye on the situation and Mubarak's actions. We are not in danger. Cairo is a long way from Jerusalem and any repurcussions that may result from a change in leadership will probably not be felt here right away.

We have noticed a slight decrease in the value of the Israeli Shekel. That is good for us, since it means our U.S. dollar is worth a little more here, but it is an indication that investors in Israeli interests are being cautious. For more info on this, check out: http://www.mlive.com/opinion/muskegon/index.ssf/2011/02/guest_commentary_why_israel_fe.html

There is speculation that the ripple effect of these demonstrations and the possible leadership transition could alter the good relations that Egypt and Israel have enjoyed with each other for over 30 years. Egypt was the first country to develop a peace treaty with the modern state of Israel, doing so under the leadership of Anwar Sadat. (Jordan later followed Egypt's lead.)

Please be assured that all is well with us here in rainy but beautiful Jerusalem!