For a number of years after the fall of the Soviet Union, Russia had to focus on recuperation and restoration. Now that they are more or less back on their feet, they'd love to be able to go push for shove with the U.S., but would not dare to challenge them directly, a Middle East confrontation gives them the excuse they want/need to really start exerting some influence and be a superpower again. This is especially true with a guy like Putin in charge. For a while I liked Putin, he was a strong leader they needed, but he's become a dangerous person who can't be trusted.

I agree with the consensus on that Iranian dude though. He really is an asshole of the highest order.