As tensions escalate in the Middle East, the FBI has warned a California police department of a potential Iranian drone strike. In response to US strikes, Iran could retaliate and target the West Coast with drones, ABC News said, citing the warning.
An alert distributed in late February stated: “We have recently received information that in early February 2026, Iran is reportedly seeking a surprise attack using unmanned aerial vehicles from an unidentified vessel off the coast of the United States homeland, specifically against unspecified targets in California, in the event that the United States conducts strikes against Iran.”
He further noted that authorities have no further information on the timing, method, target or perpetrators of this alleged attack. However, the FBI’s warning did not specify how or when vessels carrying explosive UAVs could get close enough to the US mainland.
The warning came just as the Trump administration launched “Operation Epic Fury” against the Islamic Republic. In retaliation, Iran launched missile and drone attacks in Israel and across West Asia, targeting US military bases and assets.
In recent months, U.S. intelligence officials have raised concerns about drone access by Mexican drug cartels, which they believe could be used to attack U.S. forces and personnel near the Mexican border.
A September 2025 bulletin cited by the news site further states that unidentified Mexican cartel leaders have authorized UAS (drones) attacks carrying explosives against U.S. law enforcement and U.S. military personnel along the U.S.-Mexico border. The unconfirmed report went on to suggest, “This type of attack against US personnel or interests inside the United States would be unprecedented, but it illustrates a plausible scenario, although (the cartels) typically avoid actions that would lead to unwanted attention or reactions from US authorities.”
“Prepared for any emergency,” says California governor
California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s said in a statement on X: “I am in constant coordination with security and intelligence officials, including @Cal_OES, to monitor potential threats to California – including those related to the conflict in the Middle East. While we are not aware of any immediate threats at this time, we remain prepared for any emergency in our state.”
According to a statement from Gavin Newsom’s office to ABC News, the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services is actively working with state, local and federal safety officials to protect their communities.
“Out of an abundance of caution and in light of current religious practices, the department continued increased patrols around places of worship, cultural institutions and other prominent locations throughout the county,” ABC News quoted him as saying.
He further noted that concerned agencies have proactively reviewed deployment plans, improved coordination with patrol stations and are ensuring deployment of additional resources.
