Eight men have been indicted on conspiracy charges for allegedly plotting to attack a UFC event in Philadelphia and potentially targeting the White House, according to federal prosecutors.

The indictment, unsealed Tuesday in U.S. District Court in Philadelphia, charges the men with conspiracy to provide material support to terrorists and conspiracy to use weapons of mass destruction.

Prosecutors say the men, identified as members of the so-called "Ansar al-Khilafah" group, were inspired by the Islamic State and planned to carry out attacks in the U.S.

The group allegedly discussed attacking the UFC event, which was scheduled to take place in Philadelphia on Sept. 17, 2016, as well as targeting the White House and other government buildings.

Authorities said the men were arrested in various locations across the country in late August 2016.

"These individuals were allegedly motivated by a violent extremist ideology and were actively planning attacks on American soil," said U.S. Attorney Zane Memeger in a statement.

"The indictment demonstrates our commitment to disrupting and preventing terrorist plots before they can be carried out."

The investigation involved multiple federal agencies, including the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security.

If convicted, the men face a maximum sentence of life in prison.