US allows staff to leave Israel as Iran tensions soar

US President Trump has warned that he may attack Iran if it does not agree to a new nuclear deal by early March. At the same time, the UN's nuclear watchdog has called on Tehran to permit inspections at its nuclear facilities. On Friday, the United States allowed some of its embassy staff in Israel to leave because of safety concerns, as tensions rise in the Middle East. The US Embassy in Jerusalem announced that non-emergency personnel and the families of embassy staff could depart Israel, following permission from the US State Department. It also advised US citizens to consider leaving Israel while commercial flights are still operating. President Trump has consistently threatened to strike Iran if talks to limit its nuclear program do not succeed. He has deployed a large fleet of warships and aircraft to the area. On Friday, Trump expressed his frustration with Iran's stance in the negotiations but stated he had not yet made a decision about a potential attack. “I’m not happy with the fact that they’re not willing to give us what we have to have,” he told reporters. “I’m not thrilled.” Iran has warned it will target American bases in the region if attacked and may also launch missile strikes against Israel, a US ally. Countries are updating travel advisories for Israel and Iran.