IMF Cuts Growth Outlook, Warns Iran War Could Push Global Economy to Brink

A tanker carrying fuel oil is damaged following unidentified attacks, near Basra, Iraq, on March 12, 2026. Reuters/Mohammed Aty/File PhotoThe International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Tuesday cut its growth outlook and warned the global economy could edge toward recession if the Iran war intensifies, as energy disruptions ripple through inflation, financial markets, and trade.In its latest World Economic Outlook and accompanying analysis, the IMF said the Middle East conflict—now disrupting a key share of global oil and gas flows—sent previously positive growth momentum to an unexpected halt and introduced unusually high uncertainty for policymakers and investors.