All you need to know about the war in Syria is as follows, the Christians are fighting on the side of Assad. Assad is a son of bitch but he wishes Christians no harm. Assad is no danger to the USA. Assad is a danger to Israel but considering Israels abilities and nuclear weapons, this is of little importance.
Nation building in an Islamic nation is impossible as a nation of free people is totally contradictory to the Koran.
The only logical course in the Middle East is to instill the non secular dictator of our choice that will also support us. Russia understands this.
I lived and worked in the Middle East for some years and do know of which I speak.
Sure, he wishes Christians no harm so long as they adhere to the Ba’athist Arab nationalism/Arab socialism credo (yes, national socialism) as promulgated by heretic Greek Orthodox co-founder of the Ba’ath Party Michel Aflaq, instead of the teachings of Jesus. And of course do not challenge the supremacy of the Alawites.