Easing of Fears of Attack in Syria Sinks Shekel-Dollar Rate

The shekel-dollar rate sank to a two-year low Wednesday, reaching to as low as under 3.56 shekels to the dollar, after President Barack Obama called off a Senate vote on giving him permission to attack Syria. One shekel now is worth slightly more than 28 cents, good news for Israelis wanting dollars but terrible for exporters and Americans in Israel whose savings or wages are in dollars.

Last week, when it seemed certain that the United States would attack Syria, the rate was more than 3.66 shekels to the dollar.

Analysts expect the Bank of Israel to buy more dollars to jack up the rate if it falls much lower, but similar measures in the past have proven to have little long-term effect. The rate may move back up because of renewed strength in the American dollar worldwide.

However, the shekel  is expected to grow stronger  in the long term because of an improving economy, reduction of the deficit and the continuing development of the new offshore energy industry that is turning Israel into an energy exporter.