Syria: Why Iran Would Sit Out an Upcoming Offensive

Syrian loyalist forces are gearing up for a major operation, but their most important ally, Iran, may not be participating. For the last several weeks, preparations have been underway for an offensive in southwest Syria, where rebels are active in Daraa and Quneitra provinces. However, the area about to come under attack is technically part of a de-escalation zone agreed to by the United States and Russia. It's also close to Israel, which is more than slightly concerned about the potential for Iranian forces on its doorstep....