The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) had warned law enforcement agencies about a possible Iranian plan to launch a drone attack in the U.S. state of California, according to a security bulletin obtained by ABC News.
The alert, circulated to police departments across California in late February, stated that intelligence gathered in early February 2026 suggested that Iran might attempt a surprise drone strike from an unidentified vessel positioned near the mainland coast of the United States.
The warning indicated that the potential targets could be specific locations in California. However, authorities said there was no detailed information about the exact timing, method, or targets of the suspected attack.
The alert was reportedly issued just before the administration of Donald J. Trump began its current military operations against Iran. The conflict has now continued for about 12 days, during which Iran has responded with drone attacks on several targets in the Middle East.
A senior law enforcement official told ABC News that Iran’s ability to conduct such attacks may have been significantly reduced due to continuous bombing during the past 12 days.
The report also noted that U.S. intelligence agencies have been increasingly concerned about the use of drones by Mexican drug cartels along the border areas. A September 2025 bulletin warned of possible drone attacks against U.S. military and law enforcement personnel near the border with Mexico.
Former intelligence chief at the Department of Homeland Security, John Cohen, said Iran has a broad presence in Mexico and parts of South America and possesses drone capabilities. He added that issuing the warning was the right step given the circumstances.
Meanwhile, the office of Gavin Newsom, governor of California, said state authorities are working closely with local and federal security agencies to address potential risks.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department also said it remains on high alert amid the current global tensions, increasing patrols around sensitive sites, including places of worship and other key locations.
Although the FBI warning did not specify how or when such drone-carrying vessels might approach the U.S. mainland, intelligence officials have long feared that Iran could pre-position drones or related equipment by land or sea in case of military action by the United States or Israel.
