France has formally recognized Palestine, with French President Emmanuel Macron declaring at the United Nations in New York on September 22 that “the time for peace has come, nothing justifies the ongoing war in Gaza.” The move adds France to a growing list of countries taking this step despite US and Israeli opposition.
The announcement came just a day before US President Donald Trump is due to address the General Assembly, alongside leaders from Jordan and Qatar. Washington, however, did not take part in a France- and Saudi-hosted summit on September 22 that focused on pathways to peace.
Momentum continues to build in Europe. Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, Andorra, and San Marino are expected to extend recognition soon, following similar declarations by the UK, Canada, Australia, and Portugal on September 21.
So, which nations already recognize Palestine as a state—and what does such recognition mean in practice? Click through to find out.