California: The Federal Bureau of Investigation has warned law enforcement agencies in California about a potential drone attack that could be launched by Iran in retaliation for recent military strikes by the United States.
According to an alert reviewed by ABC News, the FBI circulated a bulletin to multiple police departments in California warning that Iran may attempt to target locations along the American West Coast using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
The advisory comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions following military actions involving the United States and Israel against Iranian targets, which reportedly killed senior Iranian officials and triggered retaliatory responses from Tehran.
Intelligence suggests possible drone launch from vessel
The FBI alert reportedly cited intelligence suggesting that Iran had considered launching drones from a vessel positioned near the American coastline.
According to the bulletin, authorities obtained information indicating that as of early February 2026, Iran had allegedly explored the possibility of carrying out a surprise attack using unmanned aerial vehicles launched from an unidentified ship located off the US coast.
The warning specifically referenced potential targets somewhere within California, although it did not mention particular cities, infrastructure or strategic installations.
Officials said that the intelligence currently lacks operational details such as the precise timing, location, or method of a potential strike.
The alert stated that investigators do not yet have confirmation regarding the individuals responsible or the exact plan that might be executed.
Despite the absence of concrete details, the advisory was issued as a precautionary measure to ensure that local law enforcement agencies remain vigilant and prepared for any emerging threats.
Rising tensions following Middle East conflict
The warning comes during a period of escalating tensions in the Middle East after military operations involving the United States and Israel targeted Iran’s military and nuclear infrastructure.
The strikes reportedly resulted in the deaths of senior Iranian officials and prompted retaliatory actions by Iran against Western interests in the region.
Security analysts have warned that such confrontations could lead to indirect retaliation against American assets beyond the Middle East, including cyber attacks, proxy actions or unconventional military tactics.
Drone technology has increasingly become a preferred tool in modern conflicts because it allows long-range attacks without direct troop deployment.
Experts note that the use of drones launched from sea-based platforms could potentially allow adversaries to strike distant targets while maintaining plausible deniability.
Trump dismisses fears of retaliation
Despite the concerns raised by the FBI bulletin, Donald Trump said he was not worried about the possibility of an Iranian-backed attack on US soil.
When asked by reporters whether he feared retaliation inside the United States, Trump responded briefly, saying, “No, I’m not.”
His comments came as federal authorities continue to monitor intelligence reports and assess potential threats related to the ongoing geopolitical conflict.
The White House has maintained that American military operations were necessary to weaken Iran’s strategic capabilities and protect US interests.
California increases monitoring and preparedness
Authorities in California said they regularly receive intelligence alerts from federal agencies and are taking precautionary measures in response to the latest warning.
The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services confirmed that it has increased monitoring efforts in coordination with state and federal partners.
Diana Crofts-Pelayo, spokesperson for Gavin Newsom, said the state government is working closely with multiple security agencies to assess potential risks.
Officials emphasised that the alert should not cause panic but should instead serve as a reminder for authorities to remain prepared for evolving security challenges.
Law enforcement agencies across California have been advised to review emergency response protocols and maintain heightened situational awareness.
Growing concerns over drone warfare
The warning highlights growing global concerns about the expanding use of drones in military conflicts and security threats.
Unmanned aerial vehicles have become increasingly accessible and capable, making them attractive tools for both state and non-state actors.
Security experts say that launching drones from ships or offshore platforms could complicate detection and defence systems, particularly along long coastlines such as the western United States.
The US government has invested heavily in counter-drone technologies in recent years, including radar systems, electronic jamming devices and specialised interception units designed to neutralise aerial threats.
Conclusion
While the FBI alert does not confirm a specific or imminent attack, it underscores the heightened security environment following the escalation of hostilities between the United States, Israel and Iran. Authorities in California and across the United States continue to monitor intelligence closely as geopolitical tensions raise concerns about potential retaliation beyond the Middle East.