Answer: PALESTINE

Palestine refers to a historic region in the Middle East, located on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea. It encompasses parts of present-day Israel, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip. The term is often used to refer to the geographic area, as well as the political and cultural aspirations of the Palestinian people.

Note: The provided meaning of the answer is for the latest New York Times crossword puzzle clue. Explanations are generated by AI and may be inaccurate.