Trending Now - FBI Warns of Potential Drone Threats to California From Iran
WHO:
President Trump
Gov. Gavin Newsom, California Governor
FBI, Federal Bureau of Investigation
U.S. Coast Guard
Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department
John Cohen, former head of intelligence for the Department of Homeland Security
WHAT:
The FBI warned California police departments that Iran could retaliate for American attacks by launching drones at the West Coast.
A memo indicated that as of early February 2026, Iran allegedly aspired to conduct a surprise drone attack from an unidentified vessel off the U.S. coast against unspecified targets in California.
The warning was described as cautionary and not based on credible intelligence.
The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services elevated its security posture following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran that began on February 28, 2026.
WHERE:
California, United States
Off the coast of the United States Homeland
WHEN:
The warning was issued in early February 2026.
U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran began on February 28, 2026.
The alert was distributed at the end of February 2026.
WHY:
The warning was based on intelligence regarding potential Iranian retaliation for U.S. strikes against Iran.
HOW:
The warning was issued through a memo sent to agencies that are part of a federal Joint Terrorism Task Force.
The FBI's alert did not specify how or when vessels carrying attack drones could approach the U.S. mainland.
(UPDATED March 11, 2026 23:08 UTC)
The FBI has issued a warning to California police departments about the potential for Iranian retaliation through drone attacks on the West Coast, following recent U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran that began on February 28. A memo, distributed to agencies in a federal Joint Terrorism Task Force, indicated that Iran may be planning a surprise drone attack from an unidentified vessel off the U.S. coast, although the warning is described as cautionary and not based on credible intelligence. In response, the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services has elevated its security posture to address these concerns.