GPS disruptions persist across Israel despite ceasefire with Iran
IDF signal interference continues amid ongoing missile threats and fragile truce.
Although the ceasefire with Iran went into effect last Wednesday, disruptions to satellite navigation systems in Israel are continuing. With the launch of Operation Roaring Lion, the IDF began interfering with satellite navigation signals, affecting the use of apps such as Waze and Google Maps, as well as applications used to track activities like cycling or running.
This disruption is a standard measure during security events and is intended to impair the ability of guided missiles and drones to lock onto targets. It is carried out either by blocking satellite signals or by transmitting spoofed signals that shift the perceived location. As a result, navigation apps sometimes display users as being in places like Damascus or Beirut, even when they are actually in central Tel Aviv.
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Missile interceptions in northern Israel.
(Photo: Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency) via REUTERS)
Despite the ceasefire, the disruptions have not stopped. They are occurring not only in northern areas, which remain under threat from Hezbollah missile fire, but also in central locations. In recent days, users have reported navigation disruptions in central Tel Aviv, the Diamond Exchange district in Ramat Gan, and along major intercity highways.
There are several reasons for the continued interference. First, missiles launched from Lebanon have a range that includes the center of the country. On the night between Thursday and Friday, after the ceasefire came into effect, launches from Lebanon triggered sirens in Ramat Gan, Tel Aviv, Petah Tikva, and Ashdod, among other locations.
In addition, the ceasefire with Iran remains temporary and fragile. U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Sunday a potential naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz after direct talks between the United States and Iran ended without results. Given that missile fire from Iran could resume at short notice, the disruptions are likely to continue as long as a stable and lasting ceasefire is not achieved.
