U.S. law enforcement agencies are increasing their vigilance after a warning from the FBI about a potential drone attack threat targeting the West Coast. The alert suggests that Iran may have considered launching unmanned aerial vehicles from a vessel near the United States if American forces carried out strikes against the country.
FBI Alert Warns of Possible Drone Threat to California
The FBI recently shared an alert with police departments across California warning about a possible retaliatory drone attack linked to Iran.
According to the notice, intelligence gathered earlier this year suggested that Iran may have considered launching a surprise attack using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) from a vessel located off the U.S. coastline.
The alert stated that the potential targets were unspecified locations in California. However, officials said there was no confirmed information about the timing, exact targets, or individuals who might carry out such an attack.
The warning was distributed to law enforcement agencies toward the end of February.
Threat Emerged Amid Rising Tensions
The warning reportedly came around the time the U.S. government launched military strikes against Iran.
Since those strikes, Iran has reportedly responded with drone attacks targeting locations across the Middle East.
Despite the earlier warning, a senior law enforcement official indicated that the recent conflict may have significantly weakened Iran’s ability to carry out a large-scale attack against the United States.
Authorities continue to monitor potential threats while gathering more intelligence.
Officials Decline to Comment on Details
When asked about the alert, a spokesperson for the FBI office in Los Angeles declined to comment.
The White House also did not immediately respond to requests for further information about the report.
Security officials often limit public comments in situations involving intelligence warnings in order to protect sensitive information and ongoing investigations.
Growing Concern Over Drone Use by Criminal Groups
In addition to international threats, U.S. intelligence agencies have raised concerns about the increasing use of drones by criminal organizations.
Authorities say Mexican drug cartels have been experimenting with drone technology, including the possibility of using drones to carry explosives.
A bulletin issued in September 2025 suggested that unidentified cartel leaders may have considered attacks using drones against U.S. law enforcement or military personnel near the U.S.-Mexico border.
Although such an attack inside the United States would be unprecedented, officials say the scenario remains possible.
California Authorities Increase Security Measures
California officials say they are working closely with federal and local law enforcement agencies to monitor potential risks.
A spokesperson for Governor Gavin Newsom said the state’s Office of Emergency Services is coordinating with security officials to help protect communities.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department also confirmed that it is maintaining an elevated level of readiness because of current global events.
Authorities have increased patrols in several areas, including:
- Places of worship
- Cultural centers
- Public gathering locations
- Other prominent sites throughout the county
Officials say they are reviewing deployment plans and ensuring additional resources are available if needed.
Experts Warn of Possible Drone Warfare Risks
Security experts say the growing use of drones in global conflicts has raised new concerns about how these technologies could be used in future attacks.
John Cohen, a former intelligence leader at the Department of Homeland Security, said the warning is important because it helps local agencies prepare for potential threats.
He also noted that Iran has connections and influence in parts of Latin America, which could increase the risk of operations outside the Middle East.
Experts say drones could potentially be launched from ships or other platforms located near the United States.
Intelligence Officials Monitor Potential Threats
Although authorities have not confirmed any immediate threat, intelligence agencies continue monitoring developments closely.
Officials have long been concerned about the possibility of weapons or equipment being secretly positioned in advance for potential attacks.
Such equipment could theoretically be stored on ships at sea or hidden in other locations until activated during a conflict.
