[IMF Lowers 2026 Global Economic Growth Forecast, Citing Significant Impact of Middle East Conflict on Current Growth Momentum] Odaily Planet Daily News – The International Monetary Fund (IMF) released the latest edition of the *World Economic Outlook Report* on the 14th, lowering the 2026 global economic growth forecast by 0.2 percentage points to 3.1%. The report states that the Middle East conflict has significantly impacted the current momentum of global economic growth. If the conflict and high oil prices persist for a longer period, this year's global economic growth rate could drop to 2.5% or even lower. (Xinhua News Agency)