Popemobile will roll out again, this time to help Gaza’s children

Pope Francis, in the final months of his life, had requested that Caritas — the Catholic Church’s international humanitarian arm — convert one of his former popemobiles into a mobile health clinic to serve children in Gaza, an area devastated by ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis.

The initiative reflects the Pope Francis’ deep concern for children affected by war, emphasising not only the provision of essential medical care, but also the defence of their basic human rights and dignity. With many areas in Gaza cut off from hospitals and clinics, this mobile clinic is designed to reach those most in need — directly where they are.

Work on the transformation is already underway, and according to Vatican News, the first images of the converted vehicle have been released, showcasing the early stages of its transformation from a symbol of papal presence into one of humanitarian outreach.

The vehicle, originally used during the Pope’s 2014 visit to the Holy Land, is being outfitted with medical equipment including rapid infection tests, vaccines, diagnostic tools and suture kits. Once completed, it will be staffed by doctors and medics to provide critical healthcare services to children in Gaza, where the healthcare system has nearly collapsed due to ongoing conflict.

This project is not only a practical response to an urgent humanitarian need, but also a deeply symbolic gesture — a final act of mercy from a Pope known for centring his ministry on the marginalised and suffering. It reflects his unwavering belief in the dignity of every human being, especially the innocent victims of conflict.

The transformation of the popemobile is expected to take about three weeks, pending necessary approvals for entry into Gaza.

The withdrawal of Israel's initial condolence message following the death of Pope Francis has meanwhile sparked diplomatic uproar, both internationally and within Israel’s own foreign service.

Shortly after the Pope’s passing on 21 April 2025, Israel’s foreign ministry posted a message of condolence on social media. However, that message was deleted without explanation, triggering confusion and backlash. The deletion was widely seen as a diplomatic misstep and interpreted by some as a snub to the Catholic world at a time of mourning.