Global stocks rose on Friday while oil prices were headed for their biggest weekly gain in two years, as escalating tensions in the Middle East kept markets on edge. With the all-important monthly U.S.

Wall Street's main indexes were mixed on Thursday after data showed strong service activity in the world's largest economy, while cautious investors watched for any escalation in the Middle East conflict.

Wall Street was poised to open slightly lower on Thursday after a moderate rise in jobless claims sparked worries about the health of the labor market, while cautious investors kept an eye on the Middle East for any escalation in hostilities.