The Australian government has committed to restoring the graves of Australian soldiers in Gaza after satellite imagery and witness accounts revealed they were bulldozed by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The graves, located in the Commonwealth War Cemetery in Gaza, have suffered significant damage, and further harm may occur as the conflict in the occupied territory continues.
Over 250 Australian soldiers, primarily light horsemen from World War I, are interred at the Gaza War Cemetery, which is managed by the Commonwealth. Although most graves in the cemetery are British, the section housing Australian soldiers from World War II has endured the worst damage. The Tuffah area of Gaza City, where the cemetery is located, has been heavily shelled during the current conflict. However, the most extensive destruction, attributed to military earthmoving, has taken place in the past year.
Satellite Evidence and Official Responses
Satellite images reveal that rows of gravestones have been removed and the soil significantly disturbed in sections A and B of the cemetery, where the majority of graves are Australian. A substantial earth berm is visible in these images, cutting through the disturbed area. A spokesperson from Australia’s Department of Veterans’ Affairs confirmed the damage, stating, “There has been significant damage to the Gaza War Cemetery, including the graves of Australians.”
The Office of Australian War Graves expressed deep concern and reiterated its commitment to restoring all affected graves as soon as feasible. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission plans to secure and repair the cemetery when it is safe, although full reconstruction is expected to take time due to the priority of humanitarian efforts post-conflict.
Local Observations and Military Justifications
Essam Jarada, the former caretaker of the Gaza cemetery, reported two bulldozing operations in April and May 2025. “The first bulldozing occurred outside the cemetery walls, extending approximately 12 meters around all sides, which were planted with olive trees,” Jarada explained. “Later, an area of slightly less than one dunum was bulldozed inside the cemetery walls, specifically in the corner containing Australian soldiers’ graves.”
In response to the satellite images, the IDF stated that defensive measures were necessary during military operations in an active combat zone. An IDF spokesperson noted, “During operations, terrorists attempted to attack IDF troops and took cover in structures close to the cemetery. Operational measures were taken to neutralize identified threats.”
Historical Context and Expert Opinions
Military historian Professor Peter Stanley from the University of New South Wales Canberra emphasized the emotional and historical significance of the Gaza cemetery. “Australians have not forgotten their soldiers’ service in the Middle East,” Stanley remarked. “The Gaza cemetery is as valued and cared for as any cemetery in the world.”
Stanley highlighted the broader historical context, noting that Commonwealth war graves have suffered damage in past conflicts, such as in Iraq during the Iran-Iraq war and the US-led invasion of 2003. He stressed the importance of treating the remains of those who died in war with respect and equity.
“At the same time as the Israelis are, understandably, demanding the return of the remains of hostages, the IDF is bulldozing the remains of Commonwealth soldiers; there’s an irony there,” Stanley observed.
Future Prospects and International Concerns
The Commonwealth War Graves Commission expressed deep concern over the extensive damage to the Gaza cemetery, which includes headstones, memorials, and boundary walls. The ongoing conflict poses a risk of further destruction, and the commission acknowledged the challenges of accessing Gaza to protect the sites.
Peter Tinley, national president of the Returned & Services League of Australia, assured that the organization would continue to monitor the situation and collaborate with authorities to ensure the restoration and maintenance of Australian graves in Gaza. “Commonwealth War Graves represent a solemn covenant between the nation and those who served,” Tinley stated. “Our focus remains on ensuring these Australians are eventually commemorated with the respect they deserve.”
As the conflict in Gaza persists, the restoration of the war graves remains a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of war on historical sites and the collective memory of nations. The Australian government and international bodies face the challenge of balancing immediate humanitarian needs with the preservation of historical legacies.
