Elliot,

As we have discussed in the past, in absence of a clear community consensus in the Israeli community about mapping (or not mapping) military areas, eliminating correct data that others have contributed is considered by the DWG to be an act of vandalism of OSM.

You and I discussed this issue in great length in the past, including bringing the general Israeli community in on the discussion. I discussed the matter with several Israeli mappers and posted on the Israeli forums and there was no consensus that your position was the general view of the community. Additionally there was no interest expressed by the Israeli community regarding the offer the OSMF put forth of getting an Israeli lawyer’s opinion on the matter of the legality of mapping military areas (which was your argument for their removal).

Therefore I am placing this temporary block on your account (just until you log in and read this message). In addition, we will revert your deletions. In addition, I must warn you that if you continue to purposefully act in ways that we consider vandalism, that your account may be blocked in the future, possibly permanently. Therefore I urge you to stop deleting others contributions to the map.

If you have any questions regarding this matter, please email data@osmfoundation.org

Sincerely,

Serge on behalf of the OSM Data Working Group