Sunday Times 2
Popemobile refitted as mobile clinic for Gaza kids
View(s):The Catholic aid organisation Caritas Internationalis unveiled in Bethlehem this week a “popemobile” used by the late Pope Francis, refitted as a mobile pediatric clinic for wounded children in Gaza.
“It is my hope that this vehicle will continue to bring healing and compassion to children in conflict zones, particularly in Gaza,” Pope Leo XIV wrote in a letter. “Its new mission reflects the love and solidarity embodied in Pope Francis’s legacy.”
The popemobile after renovations.
The Mitsubishi’s chassis was reinforced to drive on damaged roads, along with upgraded suspension and high-resistance tires, said Caritas. “The clinic provides a medical workspace, including a triage and examination area equipped for trauma stabilization, post-amputation care and emergency pediatric treatment. Refrigeration units, compliant with WHO’s vaccine-storage standards, allow safe transport of insulin, vaccines and pediatric antibiotics. The vehicle’s independent power system, supported by a backup battery bank, enables 6–8 hours of off-grid operation.”
Israel said it has received no request for the vehicle to enter Gaza, however.
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas gave the pope the vehicle during his 2014 visit to Bethlehem.
A ceasefire formally holds in Gaza, though there have been frequent attacks and regular Israeli airstrikes.
(Times of Israel)