U.S. stock index futures fell on Thursday, following gains in the previous session as investors remained cautious about developments in the Middle East and uncertain about a potential de-escalation. The Dow E-minis were down 242 points, S-P 500 E-menis down 39.5 points, or 0.59%, and Nasdaq 100 E-mutations were down 177 points. The oil price spike from the conflict has raised inflation concerns, putting central banks in a tough spot regarding interest rates. The Iranian government has reportedly indicated it is open to diplomatic offers, despite publicly denying ongoing negotiations.