(JNS.org) Despite the latest UNESCO vote opposing Israeli sovereignty in Jerusalem, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu proclaimed stronger global support for Israel.

“Today there are more countries abstaining or supporting Israel than countries against Israel,” Netanyahu said at a reception for foreign diplomats marking Israel’s Independence Day. “That is a change, for the first time.”

UNESCO’s executive committee Tuesday approved a resolution—which passed in a 22-10 vote, with 23 abstentions—calling Israel an “occupying power” and saying any Israeli efforts to assert sovereignty over Jerusalem are “null and must be rescinded forthwith.” Last October, UNESCO had passed two resolutions denying Jerusalem’s Jewish heritage.