I agree.  However, what is missing from most articles on the conflict in Syria is the real reason, namely oil.  This was the same reason for the war in Afghanistan and the war in Iraq.  For Syria, it boils down to the United Arab Emirates wanting to build a gas pipeline to connect to Europe through Syria and Turkey.  a few years ago, Syria refused this request and instead entertained a request from Iran to build an oil pipeline through Syria to Lebanon.  US tried to help UAE by encouraging rebels to overthrow Assad.  What I fail to understand is why Canada is involved in this mess outside of providing humanitarian aid and assisting refugees.