Mixed Israeli cabinet reactions to new terror tags

Israeli ministers reacted on Sunday to the country's unprecedented designation of six Palestinian human rights groups as "terrorist organizations."

Justice Minister Gideon Saar backed the decision, saying it was "made on a factual and legal basis."

However, Minister of Regional Cooperation Esawi Frej called the decision "wrong" and "out of place."

The six organizations were: Al-Haq, Addameer, Defense for Children International-Palestine, Bisan Center, Union of Palestinian Women's Committees and Union of Agricultural Work Committees.

The officials made their remarks ahead of the weekly Cabinet meeting in Jerusalem.

On Saturday, Palestinian activists called on the international community to help reverse Israel's decision which outlawed them.

They said the move was an attempt to silence groups that have documented Israel's treatment of Palestinians over the years.

The Israeli government claims the groups had ties with the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine a political movement with violent history.

The United States and Europe reported they were caught off-guard by the decision however, Israel insisted that some US officials were notified ahead of time.

Europe, has invested in strengthening Palestinian civil society, an effort challenged by Israel's decision to outlaw well-known rights groups.

The "terrorism" label would allow Israel to raid the groups' offices, seize assets, arrest employees and criminalize funding and expressions of support.