France has officially recognized Palestine as a state, joining a growing list of Western nations. The announcement came at a high-level meeting in New York, where Andorra, Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, and Monaco also declared recognition. The UK had made its recognition just a day earlier. French President Emmanuel Macron stated: “We are here today because the time has come. It is our responsibility to do everything possible to uphold a two-state solution. Today I announce that France recognizes the State of Palestine.” Spain, Norway, and Ireland extended recognition last year. Spain has also imposed sanctions on Israel over the war in Gaza. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said: “When a people are subjected to genocide, a two-state solution becomes impossible. For the sake of reason, law, and human dignity, this massacre must end.” Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas addressed the Assembly via video message.