A hospital ship is a ship designated for primary function as a floating medical treatment facility or hospital. Most are operated by the military forces (mostly navies) of various countries, as they are intended to be used in or near war zones.
Attacking a hospital ship is a war crime. However, belligerent navies are entitled the right to board such ships for inspections.
Read more about Hospital Ship: International Law, History, U.S. Navy Hospital Ships, Legal Status
Famous quotes containing the words hospital and/or ship:
“Time rushes toward us with its hospital tray of infinitely varied narcotics, even while it is preparing us for its inevitably fatal operation.”
—Tennessee Williams (1914–1983)
“And he was lost among the waves,
His ship rolled helpless in the sea,
The fourth month of his voyage
He shouted grievously
“Beloved, do not think of me.””
—Alun Lewis (1915–1944)