I agree with Paul R. on his whole comment #22 except maybe the mention of Syria. Allowing the forming nuclear-capable axis to gain a stronger foothold there would be a strategic error in my opinion. At the same time, getting involved in Syria was not a happy thing. There are negative consequences either way.
I am not sure we could have entirely avoided involvement, sooner or later, in Syria. But I do think it should have been handled differently - which is a whole ‘nother discussion!