Israeli Sisters Found in Argentina Say They Wanted to Escape Life, No Crime Suspected

After a week of intensive searching, Israeli sisters Mali and Liel Yahalomi were located in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on Saturday. Initial police questioning revealed that the sisters had planned their disappearance in advance due to personal financial issues and intended to continue traveling to another country. They cooperated with Argentine police and an Israeli police representative but were released as no criminal suspicion arose.

In a recorded initial interrogation, the sisters told Argentine officer Walter that they simply wanted to disconnect from their family and country. When asked if anyone was threatening or blackmailing them, they denied it, reiterating their desire to leave everything behind. An Israeli police official expressed frustration over limited investigative authority in Argentina and noted that the sisters did not fully disclose their motives, but insisted they left Israel voluntarily.

The search operation involved around 300 investigators working with Europol and international police forces, coordinated by Israeli Police Commissioner Dan Levy. The case was transferred to the National Fraud Investigation Unit after ruling out kidnapping or nationalist motives. Evidence from mobile phone communications showed Liel willingly joined the plan, and the sisters took steps to avoid tracking, including deleting apps and using the Gemini app to plan their route. Surveillance footage in Vienna showed them leaving their residence with all personal belongings and no other individuals.

Authorities confirmed the sisters were not in danger and could continue their travels freely. However, investigators are exploring whether someone may have guided them during their escape. The investigation remains ongoing to clarify all circumstances surrounding their disappearance.