The ongoing conflict in the Middle East, particularly the Iran War, is poised to cast a significant shadow over the upcoming meetings of the IMF and World Bank. Economists warn that the war is already resulting in the highest oil prices in decades and could lead to a prolonged economic downturn, with the IMF projecting stagnation and inflationary pressures. Discussions at the meetings will focus on the urgent need to address the economic fallout, as prices for everyday goods, from fuel to food, continue to rise sharply. IMF Chief Kristalina Georgieva has highlighted that the global economy is ill-equipped to handle the cascading effects of the war, and without immediate action, the economic scars may persist even if peace is restored.