Law enforcement agencies across California have received a warning from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) concerning a possible Iranian drone attack aimed at West Coast locations as a response to recent US military operations.
The intelligence alert, circulated to police departments in late February, indicated that Iran had reportedly considered executing a surprise drone strike launched from an unidentified vessel situated off the United States coastline. This alleged plan was reportedly discussed in early February 2026.
Authorities have stated that no further specific details are available regarding the exact timing, methods, intended targets, or the individuals responsible for this potential operation.
This warning comes at a time when the administration intensified its military actions against Iran. In response, Tehran has carried out drone attacks on various targets throughout the Middle East.
A senior US law enforcement official informed ABC News that the intelligence regarding the potential drone threat emerged prior to the joint military strikes conducted by the United States and Israel against Iran. It is now believed by officials that these recent military actions have significantly diminished Iran's capacity to carry out such an attack.
Representatives from the FBI's Los Angeles office have declined to comment on the alert, and the White House has not yet provided a response to requests for comment.
In a related development, US intelligence agencies have also expressed concerns over the increasing use of drones by criminal organizations in Mexico. A bulletin from September 2025 noted reports that leaders of Mexican drug cartels had allegedly authorised the use of explosive-laden drones against US law enforcement and military personnel stationed near the US-Mexico border.
Although this type of attack was described as unprecedented, officials noted it remains a feasible scenario, even though cartels typically avoid actions that could provoke a severe US reaction.
In California, state authorities confirmed that security agencies are working closely together in response to the warning. The office of Governor Gavin Newsom stated that the state's emergency services are collaborating with federal and local agencies to ensure the safety of communities.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department also confirmed that it has increased its state of readiness. The department indicated it has maintained a heightened alert status and has augmented patrols around religious sites, cultural institutions, and other significant locations throughout the county, in light of current global events.
Security officials have reportedly reviewed deployment strategies and prepared additional resources that might be required.
John Cohen, a former intelligence chief at the US Department of Homeland Security, highlighted the growing security challenges posed by the increasing use of drones by both state actors and criminal entities. Cohen observed that Iran possesses extensive connections within Mexico and South America, has access to drones, and now has a motive to conduct attacks. He added that alerts like the one issued by the FBI are crucial in assisting local authorities to prepare for evolving threats.
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