The International Monetary Fund (IMF) warned on Thursday that continued disruption from the Iran war is pushing the global economy closer to an “adverse” scenario due to slower growth, tighter financial conditions and rising inflation risks, AFP reports.Last month, the IMF’s World Economic Outlook projected global growth at 3.1 percent for 2026 under its baseline or “reference” scenario, while warning that prolonged conflict could significantly weaken the outlook.Under the Fund’s “adverse” scenario – where oil prices remain high for a longer period, inflation expectations become unstable and financial conditions tighten – global growth could slow to 2.5 percent.“We are moving towards a headwind, but inflation expectations are still largely anchored and financial conditions remain accommodative,” IMF chief spokeswoman Julie Kozak told reporters in Washington.The IMF has also outlined a more serious scenario under which global growth could slow to 2 percent while inflation could rise to 6 percent.The multilateral lender is expected to release an updated World Economic Outlook in July.The ongoing US-Israeli war over Iran has disrupted the Middle East and tensions have risen sharply across the region, with Tehran targeting US regional allies in retaliation and severely disrupting movement through the Strait of Hormuz.The strategic waterway typically handles about one-fifth of global oil and gas supplies, and the disruption has caused a sharp rise in global energy prices.Kozak said the IMF is engaged in “active discussions” with several member countries facing economic pressures due to the conflict.“Many countries are actually asking us for support in the policy area,” he said.During the IMF’s spring meetings last month, Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva indicated that at least 12 countries may need IMF financial assistance, with total support needs estimated at between $20 billion and $50 billion.Kozak said discussions were ongoing on financial assistance but declined to identify the countries involved.The IMF also highlighted growing concerns over global food security as blockade-related disruptions in the region disrupt fertilizer supplies.“We know from history that when fertilizer prices go up, it takes about six months or more for food prices to rise and, in some cases, lead to reduced yields and food security issues,” Kozak said.