At the request of the Israeli military, Google's mapping and navigation app Waze will turn off real-time traffic conditions in Israel and the Gaza Strip, people familiar with the matter said.Currently, Israel is considering launching a ground invasion of the Gaza Strip.A Google spokesperson responded in a statement: "In response to the evolving situation in the region, and as we have done in previous conflict situations, we have temporarily disabled real-time traffic and busy information features for the safety of local communities."
Google said that while Google Maps and Waze will not display real-time traffic conditions, drivers using navigation systems will continue to receive ETAs based on real-time traffic conditions.
However, people familiar with the matter revealed that Google deleted the real-time congestion data for Israel and Gaza at the request of the Israel Defense Forces because the real-time traffic information could reveal the movements of the Israeli army. Last year, Google took similar action in Ukraine, disabling real-time vehicle and pedestrian traffic data after the conflict between Russia and Ukraine broke out.
According to Israeli technology website GeekTime, Apple’s map application also complies with the Israeli military’s requirements.Live traffic conditions in Israel are no longer shown.
After a surprise attack by Hamas earlier this month, Israel called up more than 300,000 reservists. The Israeli military has hinted at a ground invasion of Gaza, a move that has been criticized by world leaders for the potential civilian casualties. U.S. President Joe Biden said he asked about "alternatives" to a ground war during his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu last week.
As of press time,An Apple spokesman has not yet commented, nor has the Israel Defense Forces.