Israeli Mother and Daughter Missing in Vienna as Investigation Expands Internationally

Nearly a week after Israeli mother Mally Yahalomi and her daughter Liel disappeared in Vienna, Austria, the investigation into their disappearance has taken a dramatic turn. Initially a missing persons case, it has evolved into a complex inquiry involving senior security officials and a gag order issued by an Israeli court. The case was transferred to the National Fraud Investigations Unit (Lahav 433) after Israeli security agencies assessed that the disappearance likely does not involve kidnapping or nationalist motives.

A senior police source involved in the investigation told Channel 12 News that the working assumption is that both women are alive and that all possibilities are being explored, including whether the disappearance was a planned escape or a criminal act by a local Vienna gang. The possibility of nationalist motives is still under consideration. The investigation is conducted jointly by the Vienna police and Israel’s Lahav 433, but no digital traces or clear leads have been found. Austrian authorities increasingly believe the women are no longer in Austria, expanding the search internationally.

The Israeli embassy in Austria has been involved, and although Austrian media reported Mossad participation, this was denied. The case has also caused turmoil in the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange, with Bank of Jerusalem’s shares plunging about 12% due to rumors linked to the case, as Mally Yahalomi was employed there. The bank issued a statement assuring customers that their funds are safe and operations continue normally.

The Yahalomi family has provided detailed testimony to investigators and criticized Israeli police spokespersons for prematurely suggesting conclusions about the disappearance. They insist all scenarios, including nationalist motives, remain open. Mally, 50, and Liel had been on a surprise European trip planned by Liel, visiting Prague and Vienna. They were last seen in Vienna last Friday, after which all contact ceased. Mally’s brother traveled to Austria to assist in the search. Israeli Police Commissioner Major General Danny Levi held a special briefing and ordered unlimited resources be dedicated to locating the two, emphasizing enhanced cooperation with international and local authorities.