A French helicopter carrier stationed off the coast of Egypt, this initiative has become a lifeline for many, offering crucial care at a time when health infrastructure in the war-devastated enclave is collapsing.
Captain Alexandre Blonce revealed that nearly 120 injured individuals have been successfully hospitalized on board, while hundreds more have sought outpatient consultations. These consultations cover a range of medical needs, including follow-ups on injuries and psychiatric issues. Captain Blonce describes this as an 'unprecedented mission' in providing essential healthcare services during these challenging times.
This extraordinary effort by the French field hospital on the Dixmude highlights its pivotal role in addressing the urgent health needs of the Gaza community amidst the ongoing crisis."
Gazans have struggled to get medical care at home as tens of thousands have been wounded, with most of Gaza's 36 hospitals no longer functioning, and those remaining operating at far over capacity, the World Health Organization says.
Israel has targeted the largest remaining hospitals, saying Hamas fighters are operating there, something Hamas denies.
Those lucky enough to cross into Egypt, like 16-year-old Ahmed Abu Daqqa, who was injured on Nov. 1, faced long waits for medical care.
Doctors in Gaza "took out the shrapnel and put in two rods, but a month later they discovered more shrapnel in my knee. They told me they'll handle it later because there were too many surgeries," he said on board the Dixmude.
"I tried many times to get a transfer" before finally crossing into Egypt, he said.
He was then able to undergo further surgery where the rods and shrapnel were removed and a resulting infection dealt with, as well as receiving physical therapy.
He and others on board the French ship were awaiting further transfers to hospitals in Egypt or abroad.
Italy sent a similar floating hospital to the Egyptian coast in December.