#Spain and #Ireland are the largest and most politically influential #EU nations to recognize Palestinian statehood, joining a few other European countries that have already done so.
While largely symbolic, the three nations hope their move will gather momentum and spur more EU countries to follow suit. The #UK, #Australia and some other EU states have indicated they could also recognize Palestinian statehood. However, #France said now is not the right time, while #Germany sided with the #US in rejecting a unilateral approach, insisting dialogue is needed for a two-state solution (the model, the Oslo accords, favored Israel and the status quo at the expense of Palestinian right for self-determination).
Since the first ICJ ruling (Jan. 26), I've observed that France leaders started to talk about Palestinian statehood, etc. but in the acts kept assisting Israel. What prevents France from recognizing Palestine? Either the government has no real stance or no clue, or it is working behind the scenes to help Israel. (French jets assisted to stop Iranian drones, for ex.)