Mubasher: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) issued the following statement on 3 March 2026, in line with the current tensions in the region.
The IMF said that it is closely monitoring developments in the Middle East and has by far observed disruptions to trade and economic activity, surges in energy prices, and volatility in financial markets.
In its official statement, the IMF said: “The situation remains highly fluid and adds to an already uncertain global economic environment.”
It added: “It is too early to assess the economic impact on the region and the global economy. That impact will depend on the extent and duration of the conflict.”
The IMF concluded that it will provide a comprehensive assessment in its April World Economic Outlook.
Following the strikes that attacked the Middle East on 28 February 2026, Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), expressed the council’s condemnation in the strongest possible terms of the nefarious and blatant Iranian missile attacks on the territories of the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Jordan.
Albudaiwi described these attacks as a flagrant violation of sovereignty, affirming that all GCC states stand in full solidarity as one rank in the face of these assaults.
He stated: "The Council places all its capabilities at the disposal of these nations to support whatever measures they take to defend their sovereignty, security, and national interests, while maintaining their right to respond and defend themselves in accordance with the principles of the United Nations (UN) Charter.”
Moreover, Albudaiwi warned of the dire consequences of this unjustified escalation, which threatens the security and stability of the region.
He explained that the GCC members have always been strong advocates for maintaining regional peace, security, and stability for the benefit of all peoples in the region.
Albudaiwi concluded: "Targeting the territories of GCC states contradicts the provisions of international law, the UN Charter, and the principles of good neighborliness, and cannot be accepted under any justification or pretext," stressing that Iran must immediately cease any escalatory actions that would undermine regional security and stability.
