Not sure I qualify as 'better informed' but lived in the region and understood the language at one time, I read several papers daily, including Arab, Russian, and several other news feeds. Nothing heard / read specific on the source of tactics / raining, however US, Russian, Iranian (or their local surrogates) are all in the region picking friends, enemies of enemies (very important), and enemies.
One interesting note is that US SoF reported they witnessed ISIS making 'impressive tactical withdrawals', and not uncoordinated retreats. That was by training, not by accident, and likely western tactics and training.
The power struggles and politics in-region make US politics look like kindergarten antics.
The key to project the future is identifying who the key players in the region are supporting.
Does that help any?
