IMF warns Middle East instability could have lasting impact on Africa

IMF warns Middle East instability could have lasting impact on Africa Instability caused by the US-Israeli war on Iran has created challenges for African economies that could take months to overcome, according to the International Monetary Fund's new Africa director, Zeine Zeidane. Speaking at a media briefing, Zeidane said the Middle East's role as a major fertiliser exporter meant disruptions in the region could have significant consequences for Africa's food security and agricultural production costs. "My immediate priority is really to help countries in the region to weather this shock," he said. Zeidane warned that the effects of the conflict were likely to persist even after a ceasefire, noting that Gulf countries had indicated it typically takes six to seven months for production and exports to return to normal levels.