ALBAWABA - In a recent development, both Apple and Google have made the decision to temporarily suspend real-time traffic data on their mapping applications in the regions of Israeli occupation and Gaza.
This decision comes in response to a request from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in anticipation of a forthcoming ground operation in Gaza.
As reported by Bloomberg, Google has taken the step to disable real-time traffic updates for both Israel occupation and Gaza within their Google Maps and Waze applications. According to a spokesperson from Google, this move is a precautionary measure aimed at ensuring the safety of local communities, considering the evolving situation in the region.
While users can still utilize these applications for navigation and estimated arrival times, the real-time traffic data feature has been temporarily disabled. The status of other navigation functionalities within Apple Maps remains unclear at this time.
This strategic action by both tech giants coincides with the IDF's preparations for a substantial ground operation in Gaza. The decision to suspend real-time traffic data is motivated by the desire to prevent the tracking of military movements in the region, thereby mitigating security concerns.
This is not the first time Google has taken such measures during times of conflict. In 2022, the company disabled real-time traffic data in Ukraine following Russia's invasion. Google has consistently cited the safety and security of local populations as the driving force behind these decisions, often taken in consultation with relevant authorities.
