(Andrew Friedman/TPS) Defense Minister Avigdor Liberman signed an order banning the Kandil organization Wednesday, and declared organization meetings in Israel to be “illegal gatherings.”

In a statement, Liberman said Kandil is associated with the Muslim Brotherhood and has served in recent years as a critical funding source for Hamas projects in Jerusalem. The group is headed by Dr. Azmi Archaan, who is identified with both Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood.

Liberman also said Kandil maintains close ties and operational collaboration with Hamas, particularly in Jerusalem, a connection that helps the terror group ensconce itself in the capital. He added that security forces will continue to act against any organization supporting Hamas or that acts to threaten Israel’s security or sovereignty in Jerusalem.