Israeli Police Uncover Planned Escape Plot of Mally and Liel Yehalomi to Argentina

Israeli police investigating the disappearance of Mally Yehalomi and her daughter Liel revealed a cellphone correspondence between the two that confirmed Liel was aware of and willingly joined her mother's escape plan. The messages included Liel's statement, "I will go with you anywhere," strengthening the conclusion that the disappearance was premeditated.

Authorities found that both women deleted apps and took steps on their phones to avoid detection. They also used the Gemini app to ask questions likely related to route planning. Investigators believe Mally had traveled abroad multiple times beforehand to prepare and may have received guidance during the escape.

The police ruled out family violence or serious financial crime motives. Mally, who worked at Bank of Jerusalem, had withdrawn about 50,000 shekels in cash before leaving, suggesting a planned long-term disappearance. The investigation also considers whether Mally's mother (the grandmother) knew or assisted financially. There was no significant contact between Mally and her ex-husband.

The escape route started in Vienna, chosen for its major train junction allowing discreet travel to various destinations. The women left false digital traces to suggest they remained in Vienna, but Israeli police knew they had moved on. They traveled from Vienna to Frankfurt, then to Argentina, sending fake location updates to family.

Upon learning they were en route to Argentina, Israeli police dispatched an officer named Walter to Mexico, who coordinated with local Argentine authorities to intercept Mally and Liel shortly after arrival. They were found planning to travel within 20 hours to an undisclosed country without an extradition treaty with Israel, where they intended to obtain fake passports and start new lives under new identities.

During questioning, Mally and Liel cited personal reasons for leaving but declined to elaborate. The police emphasized the operation was conducted solely by law enforcement without Mossad or Shin Bet involvement. The investigation continues to clarify the full motives behind their disappearance, which took about a week to resolve due to careful coordination with European partners to avoid compromising the search.