Italian authorities have arrested nine people linked to three charities on suspicion of raising millions in funds for the terrorist organization Hamas.
The suspects allegedly funneled approximately 7 million euros ($8.2 million) to "associations based in Gaza, the Palestinian territories, or Israel, owned, controlled, or linked to Hamas," a statement issued by anti-terrorism prosecutors read, according to illegal by Israel for their ties to Hamas, the AP reported.
Italian Minister of the Interior Matteo Paintedosi said the arrest operation was "important and significant" and that it "lifted the veil on behavior and activities which, pretending to be initiatives in favor of the Palestinian population, concealed support for and participation in terrorist organizations."
Hamas, which has ruled the Gaza Strip since 2006, is considered by many nations and international institutions to be a terror organization. The U.S., the U.K., Argentina, Australia, Canada, Israel and the European Union are among those that have designated Hamas as a terror organization.
Fox News Digital reached out to Israel's embassy in Italy for comment.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.