Investors are increasingly preparing for a possible prolonged conflict after renewed escalation between the United States and Iran, according to reporting from multiple outlets. The sources describe continued exchanges of strikes and growing uncertainty around whether an early end to hostilities is likely. As the situation develops, investors appear to be shifting expectations toward a “long grind,” a term used to reflect the likelihood that the conflict could last longer than markets had hoped. This framing suggests markets are factoring in duration risk rather than assuming a rapid resolution. While the reports focus on investor sentiment and expectations, they also underscore that the dispute remains active, with military actions continuing. Overall, both sources indicate that the escalation is dimming optimism for an early settlement and is prompting investors to adjust to the possibility of extended geopolitical and economic uncertainty tied to the conflict.