A prolonged conflict in the Middle East has significantly disrupted global air travel, impacting major Gulf aviation hubs like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha. This disruption threatens the successful "Gulf model" of aviation which has made long-distance travel more affordable.

• More than 3,000 flights normally operate daily through these Gulf airports; the conflict has led to widespread cancellations.
• Key airlines affected include Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways, with disruptions causing passenger stranded and increased fuel prices.
• Experts warn that a prolonged conflict could permanently deter travelers and lead to a significant increase in long-haul airfares globally, as European carriers lack the capacity to replace the Gulf hubs.

India's fertiliser supplies are under strain due to shipping route disruptions caused by the war in the Middle East, raising concerns about potential impacts on farm produce and food prices.

• India, the world's second-largest fertiliser user, heavily relies on imports from the Gulf region.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stated his government is taking measures to ensure supplies are not affected.
• Analysts suggest current stocks are sufficient for the upcoming sowing season, but this could change if the conflict prolongs, potentially impacting nitrogen fertilisers like urea.

South Korea is expanding fuel tax cuts to ease financial pressure on citizens amidst ongoing Middle East conflict.

• Fuel tax reduction rates will increase to 15 percent for gasoline and 25 percent for diesel starting Friday.
• The Ministry of Economy and Finance announced the measures.
• The tax cut extension will run until the end of May, aiming to stabilize public livelihoods against inflationary pressures from geopolitical risks.

The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) projects global economic growth to slow to 2.9 percent in 2026, citing Middle East tensions as a significant risk factor.

• Global growth forecast: 2.9% in 2026, down from 3.3% in 2025.
• Key organization: OECD, issuing its latest Economic Outlook.
• Major concern: Evolving Middle East conflict could lead to sustained higher energy prices, impacting business costs and consumer inflation.