FBI alert warns Iran aspired to launch drone attack on California - report

The FBI warned law enforcement agencies in California that Iran had allegedly aspired to carry out a drone attack against the US West Coast in retaliation for American strikes, according to an alert reviewed by ABC News. The intelligence bulletin was distributed to police departments in recent days.

According to the alert, authorities received information indicating that Tehran had considered launching unmanned aerial vehicles from a vessel positioned off the US coastline. The potential attack was described as a possible response if the United States conducted military strikes against Iran.

“We recently acquired information that as of early February 2026, Iran allegedly aspired to conduct 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 US conducted strikes against Iran,” the bulletin stated. 

Officials said the information remains limited, and no further details about the possible operation have been identified. “We have no additional information on the timing, method, target, or perpetrators of this alleged attack,” the alert added. 

The warning comes as US authorities have increased security measures amid concerns about potential retaliation following US military action against Iran. Federal and local agencies have warned that Iran and its proxies could attempt retaliatory activity, including cyberattacks or other operations targeting US interests. 

Officials said the bulletin was intended to inform law enforcement agencies and encourage vigilance, though the intelligence does not specify any immediate or confirmed threat. Authorities continue to monitor the situation as tensions linked to the conflict with Iran persist.