FBI Warns of Potential Iranian Drone Attack on California
The FBI has alerted California law enforcement agencies to a potential threat of drone attacks orchestrated by Iran, according to warnings issued in February and confirmed this week. The alert comes amid heightened tensions following U.S. Military strikes against Iran last month and as Iran seeks potential retaliation.
Details of the Threat
The FBI warning, initially reported by ABC News and the New York Post, states that Iranian officials allegedly expressed an intent to launch a “surprise attack” using unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) from an unidentified vessel off the U.S. Coastline. The intended targets are unspecified locations within California .
The alert, distributed at the end of February 2026, indicated this potential action was contingent upon the U.S. Conducting further strikes against Iran. As of early February, Iran “aspired” to conduct the attack .
California’s Vulnerability
California is considered a potential target due to its large population of Iranian-Americans – estimated at up to 500,000 – the highest concentration in the United States . Although, the FBI alert does not specify whether this demographic factor influenced the targeting decision.
Current Status and Response
As of March 11, 2026, the FBI has stated it has “no additional information on the timing, method, target, or perpetrators of this alleged attack” .
California Governor Gavin Newsom confirmed the state was aware of the potential threat and is working with local partners through the State Operations Center to address drone-related concerns . Oakland police have similarly been in contact with federal partners regarding the heightened risk .
A senior law enforcement official believes the recent U.S. And Israeli strikes against Iran have likely degraded Iran’s ability to carry out such an attack .
Ongoing Concerns
The FBI and local law enforcement agencies are maintaining close contact, and vigilance. The alert underscores growing concerns about the use of drones for malicious purposes, including potential attacks by state and non-state actors .