Understand The Times, International

Russia, Iran and Turkey have increasingly improved their political and military cooperation in a bid to tackle Daesh and resolve the Syrian crisis. The China Youth Daily singled out three reasons behind this process. While Moscow and Tehran have long fostered working relations, bilateral ties between Moscow and Ankara were damaged when Turkey, a NATO member and a key Washington ally in the region, downed a Russian bomber in northern Syria.

It is nearly impossible to believe that NATO was not aware of an unusual military mobilization on the eve of the coup, the media outlet said, adding that the bloc apparently did not share this information with Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Russia used the opportunity and the Turkish leader understood who his friends and enemies are.

Meanwhile, last week, Tehran allowed Moscow to use its Hamadan airfield to refuel bombers that were tasked with bombing militant targets in Syria, primarily Aleppo, an unprecedented development in Iran's modern history. The China Youth Daily offered three reasons that could explain improving counterterrorism cooperation between the three nations.

Firstly, if Russia, Iran and Turkey join their counterterrorism efforts, they will increase their anti-Daesh capabilities. In addition, they will also make it clear to the United States, Europe and the Middle East that they are the key players in Syria.

Secondly, the alliance offers an opportunity to exert pressure on Saudi Arabia, Washington's ally in the Middle East.

Thirdly, the alliance will help to force the US, Europe and NATO to readjust their strategy in the Middle East. Although the West has tried to make overtures to Turkey and Iran, both Middle Eastern countries seem to have opted for closer relations with Russia instead, turning to a different "decision maker." The newspaper described this process as "a logical step," adding that it "remains unclear whether the US and Europe are ready to accept Turkey and Iran's 'pivot' to Russia."

August 27 - Three Reasons Why Russia, Iran and Turkey Should Foster Political, Military Ties