France dispatches warship to Eastern Mediterranean to support Gaza's hospitals

The French assault ship Tonnerre is en route to the eastern Mediterranean on October 26, with the aim of providing assistance to Gaza's overwhelmed hospitals, grappling with a surge in casualties from Israeli airstrikes and dwindling supplies of fuel and medical resources.

President Emmanuel Macron announced his decision to dispatch the helicopter carrier to facilitate the delivery of medicines and healthcare services to the people of Gaza, as reported by Reuters.

France's Defense Ministry stated on October 26 that the 199-meter warship's mission is primarily focused on providing humanitarian aid. However, it remains unclear whether this entails delivering medical supplies to the Gaza Strip or also offering medical treatment to injured Palestinians on board.

With the capacity to transport military helicopters, tanks, and amphibious vehicles, the Tonnerre is equipped to function as a floating hospital featuring numerous beds, an x-ray unit, and two surgical units, as detailed on the ministry's website.