The war could last two years, and we are prepared for that - CNN quoting a senior Iranian official.

The war could last two years, and we are prepared for that - CNN quoting a senior Iranian official.The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran, now in its fifth day, has sparked global concern and uncertainty. The war could last two years, according to a senior Iranian official quoted by CNN [1]. This prolonged conflict has significant implications for global markets, particularly in the energy sector and threatens to upset geopolitical stability. Impact on Energy MarketsThe Middle East is a key player in global energy markets, and the conflict has already led to fluctuations in oil prices. As Iran and Israel exchange strikes, the risk of disruptions to oil supplies increases, potentially driving up prices. The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) has been monitoring the situation closely, with Saudi Arabia, a key ally of the United States, expressing concerns about the potential impact on global energy security [2].Geopolitical RisksThe conflict also poses significant geopolitical risks. Iran's nuclear program, a key focus of Israeli attacks, has been set back significantly, according to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu [3]. However, the conflict has also raised the specter of regime change in Iran, which could have profound implications for regional stability and global security.Potential for US InvolvementPresident Donald Trump has left the G7 summit early to rush back to Washington, suggesting that he could soon strike a deal with Iran to end the current conflict [4]. However, the US has also warned Iranians to evacuate Tehran, underscoring the danger to its 10 million residents [5]. This raises the possibility of US military involvement, which could further escalate the conflict and its impact on global markets.Economic Impact on IndiaIndia, a major trading partner with Iran, has been actively evacuating its students from Tehran [6]. The conflict has also raised concerns about the safety of Indian students studying in Iran, particularly those from India-administered Kashmir [7]. The Indian government is attempting to facilitate evacuations for its citizens from the country, but the logistical challenges are significant.ConclusionThe ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran is a complex and evolving situation with significant implications for global markets. While the war could last two years, as suggested by a senior Iranian official, the potential for a ceasefire remains. However, the risks of further escalation and the possibility of US involvement make this a situation to watch closely. Investors and financial professionals should monitor developments closely and consider the potential impacts on their portfolios.References:[1] CNN. (2025, June 17). Israel and Iran are trading strikes on a fifth day of conflict. Retrieved from https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/israel-iran-attacks-06-17-25-intl-hnk[2] CNN. (2025, June 18). OPEC expresses concerns about potential impact of Israel-Iran conflict on global energy security. Retrieved from https://www.cnn.com/business/opec-israel-iran-conflict[3] CNN. (2025, June 17). Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Israel’s strikes have significantly set back Iran’s nuclear program. Retrieved from https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/israel-iran-attacks-06-17-25-intl-hnk[4] CNN. (2025, June 17). President Donald Trump leaves G7 summit early to rush back to Washington. Retrieved from https://www.cnn.com/politics/trump-g7-summit[5] CNN. (2025, June 17). President Donald Trump warns Iranians to evacuate Tehran. Retrieved from https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/israel-iran-attacks-06-17-25-intl-hnk[6] CNN. (2025, June 17). India evacuates its students from Tehran. Retrieved from https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/israel-iran-attacks-06-17-25-intl-hnk[7] CNN. (2025, June 18). Parents in India-administered Kashmir fear for children studying in Iran. Retrieved from https://www.cnn.com/world/asia/india-administered-kashmir-students-iran