Even as Israel bombarded Syria, officials say the U.S. and Gulf countries were working to weaken its president’s alliance with Tehran. Rebels’ shock advance has dampened those hopes.

Iranian foreign minister has said that the country is ready to send troops to Syria and is awaiting official request from president Bashar Al-Assad. This comes as Iran's ally Russia is already helping the government forces fight Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham rebels in Syria.