France has officially recognized the State of Palestine, becoming one of the latest major world powers to do so.

The announcement was made by French President Emmanuel Macron in New York, where he described the move as “the best way to preserve the chances for lasting peace in the region.”

Macron said the decision was intended to “break the cycle of destruction” and “pave the way for peace before it becomes impossible for a long time.”

With this step, France now joins at least 145 of the UN’s 193 member states in recognizing Palestine, following recent announcements by the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and Portugal. Other European countries — including Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, Andorra, and San Marino — are also expected to follow.

The recognition means that four of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council now support Palestinian statehood: China and Russia since the 1980s, and France today. The United States remains opposed, calling the move “purely symbolic.”

In a recent interview with Israeli media, Macron criticized Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza, arguing it “totally destroys Israel’s credibility.” He expressed hope that France’s recognition would catalyze fresh peace initiatives in the Middle East.

The move was coordinated with Saudi Arabia and linked to the “New York Declaration” signed earlier this month by 142 UN states. That declaration called for a ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages, and the establishment of a viable Palestinian state.

Reactions have been swift and divided. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denounced the decision as a “huge reward for terrorism,” while the Palestinian Authority welcomed it as a “historic step” that places France “on the right side of history.”

Meanwhile, in France, at least 86 municipalities raised the Palestinian flag on Monday in solidarity, defying Interior Ministry restrictions.