US federal authorities have warned law enforcement agencies in California about a potential Iranian plan to launch a surprise drone attack against targets on the American West Coast, according to an alert reviewed by ABC News.
What does the FBI warning say?
The warning, issued by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to police departments in the state in recent days, said Iran had allegedly considered using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) launched from a vessel positioned off the US coastline.
“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 State Homeland, specifically against unspecified targets in California, in the event that the US conducted strikes against Iran,” the alert stated.
The bulletin noted that authorities currently do not have additional information regarding the timing, exact method, targets or individuals involved in the alleged plot.
Officials contacted by ABC News declined to comment on the intelligence warning.
Security agencies have also expressed growing concern over the increasing use of drone technology by criminal groups near US borders. As per the intelligence bulletin reviewed by ABC News, US officials received an uncorroborated report suggesting that leaders of Mexican drug cartels had authorized potential drone attacks using explosives against American law enforcement and military personnel along the US-Mexico border.
The bulletin said such an attack would be unprecedented but could represent a plausible threat scenario, even though cartels generally avoid actions that might trigger a strong response from US authorities.
California Govenor office responses
The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department also said it has maintained an elevated level of readiness “in light of current global events”. The department confirmed that patrols have been increased around places of worship, cultural institutions and other prominent locations across the county.
Authorities in California say precautionary measures are already being taken. The office of California Governor Gavin Newsom told ABC News that the state’s Office of Emergency Services is working closely with federal, state and local agencies to enhance security and protect communities.
The possibility of drone-based attacks remains a growing concern. ABC News contributor John Cohen, the former head of intelligence for the Department of Homeland Security, said Iran’s presence in Latin America and access to drone technology could increase the risk of such operations.
Intelligence officials have also long been concerned that military equipment could be pre-positioned on ships at sea or on land, potentially allowing hostile actors to launch attacks if tensions between the United States and Iran escalate further.
