GENEVA: The Middle East war is undermining wages and working conditions worldwide, according to a new report. The conflict could cost millions of jobs and force earnings down in 2026 and 2027, with a particular risk for migrant workers who send home remittances, the UN’s International Labour Organization said. Energy costs, transport disruption, supply chain pressure, weaker tourism and migrant labor cuts were all weighing on economies, its report said.

The crisis in the Middle East could cost 14 million full-time equivalent jobs this year if the price of a barrel of oil exceeds the average for the start of the year by 50%.

The ILO warns that ongoing West Asia conflict could risk 38 million jobs globally due to rising fuel and fertiliser prices.