Italy has announced that it will be sending a hospital ship near the coast of Gaza to provide medical assistance to the victims of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto made this announcement on Wednesday, stating that the ship would be leaving from the western Italian port of Civitavecchia with a team of 170 staff members, including 30 individuals trained in dealing with medical emergencies.

⛑️🇮🇹 Italy sends a hospital
ship near Gaza Coast 🇮🇹⛑️

“Italy will send a hospital ship near the coast of Gaza to help treat victims of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto said on Wednesday.

The ship is leaving on Wednesday with 170 staff,… pic.twitter.com/qNA2OhI9MX

— marie🔪 (@Healhaus) November 8, 2023

In addition to the hospital ship, Italy is also working towards sending a field hospital to Gaza. Crosetto further expressed his intention to keep two Italian naval vessels in the region, alongside the hospital ship, in order to ensure prompt humanitarian aid and support. He emphasized the importance of being prepared and not having any regrets in such critical situations. This decision aligns with the call made by the foreign ministers of the G7, which includes Italy, urging for humanitarian pauses in the Israel-Hamas war to allow the delivery of aid and facilitate the release of hostages.

This initiative by Italy showcases their commitment to providing crucial medical assistance to those affected by the conflict. By sending a hospital ship and working towards establishing a field hospital, Italy aims to alleviate the sufferings of the victims and contribute to the overall humanitarian efforts in Gaza. This move highlights the international community's recognition of the urgency to provide immediate relief and support to those affected by the ongoing conflict.