IMF concerned for loss of lives, economic slowdown from Mideast conflict, chief says

 The Internatinal Monetary Fund (IMF) is concerned about the tragic loss of lives in the epicenter of the Israel-Gaza war and the destruction and reduction of economic activity, managing director Kristalina Georgieva said at an investment conference on Wednesday.

"What is happening in the Middle East is happening at a time when growth is slow and interest rates are high and cost of servicing debt has gone up because of COVID and war," she said.