French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Thursday that France will formally recognize the State of Palestine, reaffirming his nation’s historic commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East.

“In fulfillment of our historic commitment to peace, I have decided that France will recognize the State of Palestine,” Macron said in a statement. “I will make an official declaration during a special address at the UN General Assembly this September.”

Macron emphasized the urgent need to end the war in Gaza and protect civilian lives, stating, “Peace is possible.”

The move marks a significant shift in French foreign policy and could bolster growing international support for Palestinian statehood amid a protracted war in Gaza that has sparked a global humanitarian outcry.