'Ceasefire' sets the Middle East at a crossroads

US President Donald Trump reportedly announced on June 24 that both Israel and Iran have violated a "comprehensive ceasefire agreement". This moment could prove to be a watershed in the politics of the Middle East, says Niu Xinchun, executive director of the China-Arab Research Institute at Ningxia University. In an interview with China Daily, Niu said the recent conflict allowed all three parties to understand each other's red lines and military capabilities, potentially paving the way for negotiations on the Iran nuclear issue. However, the future will still be uncertain. Both sides could move toward lasting peace, but mutual attacks could also become a "new normal"!