The FBI has alerted law enforcement agencies across California to unverified intelligence suggesting Iran may have considered launching a drone attack on the West Coast. The alert, distributed in late February, indicated that Iran “allegedly aspired” to conduct a surprise attack using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) from an unidentified vessel off the U.S. coastline, targeting unspecified locations in California, in retaliation for U.S. strikes against Iran. However, authorities have emphasized that this information is unverified and that there is no additional intelligence regarding the timing, method, target, or perpetrators of any alleged attack.
Unverified Intelligence and Seaborne Threat
The FBI alert, obtained by CBS News and other outlets, stated that the bureau received unverified information in early February indicating Iran’s alleged aspiration to conduct a surprise drone attack. This potential attack was envisioned to utilize unmanned aerial vehicles launched from an unidentified vessel positioned off the U.S. coastline. The targets were described as unspecified locations within California. This intelligence emerged in the context of escalated U.S. and Israeli military actions against Iran, raising concerns about potential retaliatory measures on American soil.
Official Reactions and Preparedness
California Governor Gavin Newsom confirmed his awareness of the FBI’s warning, stating that while there are no imminent threats, the state is prepared for any emergency. His office has been actively coordinating with state, local, and federal security officials since the conflict began, establishing a state operations center to monitor potential threats and prepare for worst-case scenarios. Other officials, including the founder of the San Diego chapter of the Truman National Security Project, characterized the FBI warning as both “alarming and unsurprising,” urging a measured public response and emphasizing vigilance. Law enforcement agencies across California are coordinating with federal partners and reviewing their security postures, though they stress that the current advisory contains no specific, corroborated threat details.
FAQ: People Also Ask
Q: What specific locations in California were targeted in the alleged Iranian drone attack plot?
A: The FBI alert indicated that the targets were unspecified locations within California. No specific cities or regions were identified in the intelligence.
Q: When was the FBI alert about the potential Iranian drone attack issued?
A: The FBI alert was distributed to law enforcement agencies at the end of February 2026, based on unverified information received in early February.
Q: Has the FBI confirmed the existence of an immediate threat from Iran?
A: No, the FBI has emphasized that the information is unverified and that there is no additional intelligence regarding the timing, method, target, or perpetrators of any alleged attack. Law enforcement officials have also cautioned that the warning may not point to an immediate threat.
