Russia has not withdrawn from Syria:
https://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/3612581/posts
2 issues.
1. this is from CNN (they never get it right)
2. It is correct that Russia is planning to reduce their presence in Syria. They have stated they do not wish to conflict with the US and that they can work with the US.
Now the problem. Iran.
Some in the thread you referenced stated it:
—
To: Navy Patriot
It also serves to protect Russian soldiers from whatever Iran has in mind to do next..
5 posted on 12/11/2017, 10:17:17 AM by Hugh the Scot
—
I think Iran plans to directly attack the US. If they do we will respond directly. Putin knows Iran’s mindset and they have had recent joint meetings. Putin does not want his soldiers involved in that. He will not take sides on it.
Note: to Iranians al-Quds = (Jerusalem)
General Qassem Suleimani is the Iranian Quds Commander
In my opinion, he considers his duty to be to destroy Israel. The Iranian Mullahs have never wavered from that aim. They are brutal arrogant evil people.