That's my take too. For a variety of reasons, it was (is) a smart move on Syria's part."
not sure if you agree with previous poster that it was odd syrian troops acted as they did, or just agreeing that they did. which of those is your take? that might answer your question.
It was my take Syria is helping for a variety of reasons.
The host country is responsible for providing security to our embassies. We have our own security guards, local and a small Marine detachment, but ultimately we depend upon the host country to provide protection. We do the same here for foreign missions.