In light of Israel’s Defense Ministry’s unfair designation of six Palestinian human rights organizations as terrorist organizations, Law for Palestine (L4P) expresses its firm support for the these human rights groups and its rejection of this unjust decision.

The human rights groups falsely labelled as terrorists are: Al-Haq, Addameer, Defense of Children – Palestine, the Union of Palestinian Women Committees, the Union of Agricultural Work Committees, and Bisan Center for Research and Development.

Law for Palestine believes this step is another attempt in a long series by the Israeli occupation to silence voices and crush human rights groups operating professionally and effectively in Palestine. Israel does that in an attempt to evade responsibility for violations documented and followed up on by these groups.

L4P affirms that human rights work, which lies at the heart of the struggle for freedoms and rights guaranteed under all international laws, is gaining momentum under a colonial occupation based primarily on the violations of fundamental freedoms and rights of the indigenous population. This colonial regime seeks to silence any opposition or voices demanding accountability for its crimes.

L4P extends all forms of support and assistance to fellow organizations working in areas of human rights and deeply regrets this shameful Israeli act. The international community, led by the United Nations, is now facing a real test of credibility; it must not only condemn these repeated violations, but also work to ensure that the Israeli occupation is held accountable for them in a manner that guarantees public freedom.

Human rights work spearheaded by NGOs and civil society organizations is necessary to enforce international law and to address violations.