Slovenia becomes latest EU country to recognize Palestinian state

JUBLJANA, SLOVENIA — Slovenia became the latest European Union country to recognize an independent Palestinian state after its parliament approved the move with a majority vote on Tuesday, dismissing a call for a referendum on the issue by the largest opposition party. The government last week decided to recognize Palestine as an independent and sovereign state following in the steps of Spain, Ireland and Norway as part of a wider effort to coordinate pressure on Israel to end the conflict in Gaza. \"Today\'s recognition of Palestine as a sovereign and independent state sends hope to the Palestinian people in the West Bank and in Gaza,\" Prime Minister Robert Golob said on X. The vote was scheduled for Tuesday, and a parliamentary group for foreign affairs on Monday endorsed the government decision with a majority vote.