The U.S. State Department said on Friday, that the U.S. would seek more information from Israel after it effectively outlawed six prominent Palestinian human rights groups by declaring them terrorist organizations
"We believe respect for human rights, fundamental freedoms, and a strong civil society are critically important to responsible and responsive governance," State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters in Washington.
Price said Washington was not given advance warning of the designation, a move that drew criticism from the United Nations and human rights watchdogs.
Defense Minister Benny Gantz earlier signed a declaration outlawing the six organizations linked to the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine terror group in the West Bank.
The move came after action taken by the Shin Bet and the Ministry of Defense' financial terror task force and was approved by legal councils.
First published: 22:30, 10.22.21