Korede Abdullah 
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The International Monetary Fund warns that the ongoing Middle East conflict could slow global economic growth and worsen food insecurity, even if a fragile ceasefire holds.
Speaking at the IMF-World Bank Spring Meeting on Thursday, Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva says the war’s economic fallout will have lasting global consequences.
“Even in a best case, there will be no neat and clean return to the status quo,” she says, citing rising energy costs, supply chain disruptions, and weakened investor confidence.
The IMF estimates that demand for balance-of-payments support could rise between $20 billion and $50 billion, while at least 45 million people may face worsening food insecurity.
Georgieva warns that low-income, energy-importing countries will bear the brunt of the crisis. IMF Warns Middle East War Threatens Global Growth, Food Security
At the same forum, World Bank President Ajay Banga says up to $25 billion could be deployed quickly to support vulnerable economies, with $60 billion available over time.
The conflict—linked to escalating tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran—has disrupted supply routes, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, pushing up oil prices.
A joint statement by the IMF, World Bank, and the World Food Programme warns that rising energy and fertiliser costs, alongside transport bottlenecks, will drive up global food prices.
Experts say the crisis underscores the fragility of global supply chains and the disproportionate impact on developing economies.
About the Author
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
Otamere Gladness 