THE weekend's attempted coup in Turkey should be a wake-up call to the world as to just how volatile the region is.
At least 265 people were killed by explosions and gunfire as coup plotters tried to oust the Government. 
One of the world's few Muslim majority democracies, Turkey sits at a key crossroads between the West and the Middle East - but it is under strain.
The country's main airport in Istanbul was targeted in a suicide attack last month, killing more than 40.
The coup attempt comes amid rising tensions over Islamic influences, refugees, ISIS and a polarising president seen by the military as autocratic.
A longtime ally of the U.S. and member of NATO, Turkey shares a border with the conflict zones of Syria and Iraq. It has absorbed millions of refugees and is seen by the EU as a vital partner in controlling the flow.
It is also key to stopping foreign fighters travelling across Europe, through Turkey and into Syria.
Turkey is a popular destination for Australian tourists, particularly those commemorating the military links between our two countries. We have much reason to be saddened and frightened by the deaths and disruption occurring there.
Even more so in the wake of the destruction wrought on the soil of another ally, when a terrorist killed 84 people enjoying Bastille Day in Nice, in France's south.
Australia has strong military links with the French and closer ties are being forged through the Future Submarines contract.
We are also preparing to mark the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Fromelles in northern France tomorrow.
Australians who lost their lives in conflicts in France and Turkey did so believing they were helping to ensure a safer future.
Those same regions are simmering with tension again, but stability, particularly in Turkey, and solidarity are crucial in the fight against the threat of ISIS.
This is a critical point in history. Australians stand again in defiance with our friends around the world.Responsibility for all editorial comment is taken by The Editor, Sam Weir, 31 Waymouth St, Adelaide, SA ,5000