Israeli Sisters Fled Country Due to Over $50,000 Debt

Two Israeli sisters, Mally and Liel Yahalomi, who caused widespread concern when they disappeared, have contacted their family from Argentina and confirmed their departure was voluntary. According to an individual familiar with the investigation, the sisters were not fleeing criminal intent or seeking a country without an extradition treaty. Instead, they were focused on legally withdrawing cash to facilitate their move, choosing Argentina due to its relatively low currency value.

Mally Yahalomi, in particular, faced significant financial difficulties, accumulating debts and interest totaling over 200,000 shekels (approximately $54,000 USD). Despite pursuing a master's degree to improve her banking salary and eventually receiving a promotion, she was unable to recover financially and decided to flee her debts.

Investigators believe Mally may have concealed her plans from her family, fearing they would prevent her departure or be asked to cover her debts. She likely intended to contact them only after reaching their destination. A source close to the family expressed bewilderment at the sisters' choice, questioning Mally's practical decision to move to a country like Bolivia, which lacks a robust healthcare system comparable to Israel's, especially given her struggles to find work in Israel and concerns about her future standard of living.