Google and Apple shut down map traffic data ahead of a potential Israeli attack

Ifeng.com technology news, Beijing time on October 24th, informed sources said that at the request of the Israeli military, Google’s map and navigation app Waze will shut down real-time traffic conditions in Israel and the Gaza Strip.At present, 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, as we have done in previous conflict situations, we have temporarily disabled real-time traffic and busyness information as a matter of community safety."Google said that while Google Maps and Waze will not display real-time traffic conditions, drivers using the navigation system will continue to receive estimated arrival times based on real-time traffic conditions.

But Google removed real-time congestion data for Israel and Gaza at the request of the Israel Defense Forces because real-time traffic information could reveal the movements of Israeli forces, according to people familiar with the matter. Google took a similar action in Ukraine last year after the conflict broke out between Russia and Ukraine, disabling real-time vehicle and pedestrian traffic data.

According to Israeli technology website GeekTime, Apple’s Maps app has also complied with the Israeli military’s request.No longer displaying real-time traffic conditions in Israel.

Israel has called up more than 300,000 reservists after a surprise attack by Hamas earlier this month. The Israeli military has hinted at a ground invasion of Gaza, a move that has been criticised by world leaders for the potential civilian casualties. US President Joe Biden said he asked about "alternatives" to a ground war during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu last week.

As of press time,An Apple spokesperson has not yet commented, nor has the Israel Defense Forces.(Author/Xiao Yu)

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