California on Alert for Possible Iranian Drone Threat from Offshore Vessels, FBI Advises

US Issues Warning Over Potential Iranian Drone Threat

LOS ANGELES – The FBI has alerted California law enforcement agencies about a possible plot by Iran to launch drone attacks against targets in the state from an offshore vessel. This warning comes amidst heightened domestic security concerns following extensive U.S.-Israeli airstrikes on Iranian territory.

The intelligence report indicates that the Iranian threat began surfacing in early February 2026, as the country anticipated potential military actions from the U.S. and Israel. The FBI bulletin, which was shared with local police departments at the end of February, describes the information as "cautionary" and lacking specific details regarding the potential attack’s timing or targets.

Governor Gavin Newsom addressed the situation during a news conference, confirming awareness of the threat. He noted that the state had activated its emergency operations center shortly after the outbreak of hostilities, emphasizing the importance of preparedness against drone strikes. "Drone issues have always been top of mind," Newsom stated, reiterating the state’s commitment to collaborating with local agencies to monitor and address the situation.

Despite the alert, the FBI has not provided further information on the timing or specifics of the alleged attack. Law enforcement officials have characterized the intelligence as "uncorroborated" and cautionary. Current assessments indicate that there is no evidence suggesting Iran possesses the means or plans required to execute such an operation from a vessel in the Pacific.

The context of this warning includes a significant escalation in tensions dated February 28, when U.S. and Israeli forces conducted strikes that resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. This marked a turning point, leading to the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei as the new Supreme Leader just days later.

Timeline of key events is as follows:

• Early February 2026: FBI receives information regarding Iran’s aspirations for a drone attack against California.
• Late February 2026: Bulletin issued to California law enforcement agencies.
• February 28, 2026: Airstrikes by the U.S. and Israel lead to the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
• March 8, 2026: Mojtaba Khamenei is announced as Iran’s new Supreme Leader.
• March 11, 2026: Details of the FBI bulletin are reported by multiple news outlets.

While President Donald Trump expressed confidence that such attacks would not pose a significant risk to the U.S., security experts have raised alarms about the potential for asymmetric threats, such as drone warfare and cyberattacks, arising from the recent turmoil in Iranian leadership.