Russia, Turkey, and Iran: Moving Towards Strategic Synergy in the Middle East?

This article aims to delve into the patterns of convergence and divergence of interests among three key regional players in the Middle East: the Russian Federation, Turkey and Iran. Reflecting on three recent pivotal events—namely the Syrian question and growing extremism in the Middle East; the Iranian quest for normalisation of ties with the West; and the annexation of Crimea by Russia and ongoing Black Sea disputes—the article argues that Moscow, Ankara and Tehran are seen as attempting, at least in the short term, to narrow down their foremost geopolitical differences for the sake of preserving their national interests as well as regional security and stability.