Google, Apple turn off live traffic information in Israel and Gaza
Technology
They have disabled maps data as Israeli forces are ready for a ground assault on Gaza
(Web Desk) - Google is disabling live traffic and crowding information in Israel and the Gaza Strip on Google Maps and Waze following a request from the Israeli military, Bloomberg reported citing an unnamed source.
Google confirmed the move in a statement to The Messenger.
Apple is also reportedly complying with a similar request on Apple Maps, according to Israeli tech blog GeekTime.
"As we have done previously in conflict situations and in response to the evolving situation in the region, we have temporarily disabled the ability to see live traffic conditions and busyness information out of consideration for the safety of local communities.
Anyone navigating to a specific place will still get routes and ETAs that take current traffic conditions into account," a Google spokesperson told The Messenger.
Apple did not immediately respond to The Messenger’s request for comment.
As the Israel Defense Force signals its plans for a ground assault of Gaza, real-time map traffic data could reveal troop movements as conflict between Israel and Hamas escalates.
Google has previously disabled traffic data in Ukraine in February 2022 following Russia’s invasion of the Eastern European nation.
At the time, the tech company told Reuters it took the action for the safety of local communities in the country after consulting with sources including regional authorities.
