Apple and Google have disabled some features in their map apps in Israel and the Gaza Strip, as tensions ramp up ahead of an imminent invasion of the area currently controlled by the militant group Hamas, reports The Hill.
Hamas, which the U.S. recognizes as a terrorist organization, launched an attack on Israel on Oct. 7, killing thousands of Israelis and resulting in around 200 more being taken hostage and transported back to the Gaza Strip.
In response, Israel has launched aerial and naval attacks on Gaza, an area controlled by Hamas. The Gaza Health Ministry says the resulting reprisals have killed more than 5,000 people. Israeli military commanders have said a ground invasion of the Gaza Strip will happen soon.
Google’s actions will restrict info on its Google Maps and Waze products. Apple also complied with the Israel Defense Force’s request with its Maps app, adds The Hill.
