Pope Francis's final wish to turn popemobile into Gaza health clinic fulfilled

One of Pope Francis's popemobiles has been transformed into a mobile health clinic for children in Gaza, fulfilling one of the late pontiff's final wishes before his passing.

The 'Vehicle of Hope' was unveiled on Tuesday in Bethlehem, in the occupied West Bank, by Catholic aid organisation Caritas – which took on the task of revamping the vehicle.

The popemobile has been rebuilt as a mobile clinic delivering care to children displaced and injured by the war. After a refit of its tyres and suspension system, it is hoped the vehicle will reach areas of Gaza inaccessible to normal ambulances.

Inside is an examination area equipped for trauma stabilisation, post-amputation care and emergency treatment of children. The vehicle’s power system allows for six to eight hours of off-grid operations, said the charity.

Inside the 'Vehicle of Hope': the former popemobile is equipped for emergency treatment. Reuters

Pope Francis decreed that his vehicle should be converted to help children in Gaza. Reuters

Pope Leo, who was elected in May following the death of Pope Francis, hailed the move for bringing "healing and compassion to children in conflict zones, particularly in Gaza". He said the popemobile's "new mission reflects the love and solidarity embodied in Pope Francis’ legacy".

Pope Francis, who died in April, was known for his public support for Palestinians in Gaza. He was one of the most vocal global figures calling for a ceasefire and unrestricted access for aid throughout the two-year war. The pontiff also maintained near-daily contact with Gaza's small Christian community during the conflict, offering prayers, solidarity and appeals for peace, while checking on their welfare.

Shortly before his death, he approved the conversion of one of his popemobiles into a health clinic. The one selected to be sent to Gaza was used in the Francis's visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories in 2014.

Father Ibrahim Faltas looks at the converted popemobile. AP

Swedish cardinal Anders Arborelius receives flowers from a girl from Gaza at the unveiling. AFP

The launch of the Vehicle of Hope comes at a crucial time for Gaza, where a fragile ceasefire has come into effect, despite bouts of violence. According to Gaza's Health Ministry, at least 300 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire since the truce too