Gag order imposed on investigation into disappearance of Melli and Liel Yahalomi in Vienna

A court has approved a gag order on the details of the investigation into the disappearance of Melli and Liel Yahalomi in Vienna, effective until September 13. Police warned that publishing any details constitutes a criminal offense. Reuven Ranert, chairman of the Zionist Federation in Austria, expressed concern for their well-being and noted that Vienna is considered a relatively safe city, and the disappearance has raised alertness in the community.

The court approved the request of the Lahav 433 unit to impose a gag order on all details of the investigation into the disappearance of Melli and Liel Yahalomi in Vienna, police announced this morning (Thursday). The order will be in effect until September 13, 2026. Police emphasized that it is forbidden to publish any detail related to the investigation, and that publishing information from the investigation from the moment the order takes effect constitutes a criminal offense. Reuven Ranert, chairman of the Zionist Federation in Austria and a member of the Mizrachi committee in the country, referred to their disappearance and said that members of the Jewish community in Vienna are following the situation "with grave concern." According to him, "Our main concern is first and foremost for the safety and health of the two women, Melli and Liel." Ranert added that "Vienna is considered a relatively safe city, and the fact that a mother and her daughter disappeared here without any trace raises great alertness among all of us." He said the local community is in contact with relevant parties and hopes to assist as much as possible in the search efforts.