Australia's political leaders have expressed sympathy to the family of an Australian soldier who has died in Iraq.
The father of two was killed in an accident on Friday after suffering a gunshot.
Defence Minister Brendan Nelson says the accident happened while the unnamed soldier was cleaning his gun.
Opposition Leader Kim Beazley told reporters there will be a lot of support in Australia for the family of soldier.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family. We understand he had a young family, they will be in the thoughts of all Australians at this time, and particularly so because ANZAC Day is soon upon us.”
Greens Leader Bob Brown has also sent his condolences to the family of the soldier.
And Mr Brown says while The Greens will continue to call for the troops to leave Iraq, his party will not try to exploit the situation for political gain.
‘It's just a tragedy and I wouldn't want to draw on that to make a fresh call to bring the troops home. We've always maintained that the troops shouldn't be there.’