RSL Ongoing Concerns at Gaza War Graves Damage

MEDIA RELEASE

The Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) has again raised concerns regarding damage to the graves of Australian servicemen buried in the Gaza War Cemetery.

The RSL has also expressed concern for the welfare of the cemetery’s gardeners and caretakers, who may have been impacted by the current conflict.

More than 260 Australians are buried or have their ashes interred at the Gaza War Cemetery.

RSL Australia National President Peter Tinley AM said the League had been in contact with both the Office of Australian War Graves and the Commonwealth War Graves Commission during the current conflict and following the ceasefire.

“Unfortunately, the conflict is not yet fully resolved, with ongoing actions, and this makes it extremely difficult to actively monitor the status of the war graves and the cemetery as a whole,” Mr Tinley said.

“The cemetery is normally overseen by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, and the RSL has been advised that, as soon as it is safe to do so, a full assessment of any damage will be conducted and necessary repairs undertaken.

“The cemetery has been maintained by a dedicated local team, all of whom are based in Gaza. The current head gardener is the fourth generation in his family to serve in the position, beginning with his great-grandfather, who first took up the role more than 100 years ago.

“We trust the team members and their families have survived the conflict and will soon be able to resume their duties.”

Mr Tinley said the RSL would continue to monitor the situation in Gaza and provide updates to members and the Australian community as information became available.