Bill,

An attempt to reply to your two posts - before reading the linked articles (terrible I know).

The Middle East has long been a focal point for US strategy, many argue that it has not been very productive when one considers the national resources committed. Plus the irregular comment that one opponent, Iran, has been the main beneficiary. I read the linked article below yesterday, which is the latest comment I've seen and the title 'The Fruits of Iran’s Victory in Syria'.
Link:https://lawfareblog.com/fruits-irans-victory-syria

I do wonder if we (US & UK) look too much at what we have done and not what our opponents have done.