The armed forces are most directly affected by the protracted conflict over the nomination.

But what had at first been seen as a brief Imperial engagement turned slowly into a protracted and bloody conflict.

Faced with protracted conflict, the Amish pull up stakes and move out.

At the moment, the chances of a protracted conflict do not appear great, the analysts said.

The revolt had to be swift, avoiding any protracted conflict, which they could not afford.

It is simply not built for a protracted major conflict.

Of course, he'd have much preferred a swift and easy victory, but there was something to be said about a protracted conflict.

It was noted that protracted regional conflicts there continue "to be a matter of great concern for the alliance".

For reasons she could not remember, the inhabitants had seen fit to exterminate themselves by means of a protracted conflict.

The last few months have seen five bitter and protracted conflicts brought suddenly closer to peaceful resolution.