The FBI has warned police departments in California that Iran aspires to launch drones at the West Coast in retaliation for the ongoing war, according to a media report Wednesday.
“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 U.S. conducted strikes against Iran,” ABC News reported citing an FBI alert.
“We have no additional information on the timing, method, target, or perpetrators of this alleged attack,” the alert said.
Gov. Gavin Newsom said Wednesday at a news conference that he’s aware of the apparent threat of Iranian drone strikes on California. He said when the war started, he activated the state emergency operations center.
“Drone issues have always been top of mind,” Newsom said.
“As it relates to drone strikes, we have been aware of that information,” he said. “We have been working collaboratively through the (operations center), which we established right after the war began — the State Operations Center. Working with the Office of Emergency Services, but also working locally to make sure we transmit any information that we have received.”
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said Wednesday it also remains on heightened alert as authorities monitor developments related to the conflict in the Middle East.
“In light of current global events, the Department remains at an elevated level of readiness and is maintaining increased vigilance as we continue to protect our residents of Los Angeles County,” the department said in a statement. “We are working closely with our federal and local law enforcement partners to share intelligence and monitor the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and assess any potential impacts in our communities.”
The department said public safety remains its top priority and officials are watching for a range of potential threats, including lone-actor attacks, sleeper cells and cyber-related risks.
“Out of an abundance of caution, and in recognition of current religious observances, the Department has continued increased patrols around places of worship, cultural institutions, and other prominent locations throughout the County,” the department said.
Sheriff’s officials added that they have reviewed deployment plans, coordinated with patrol stations and ensured additional resources are available if needed.
The department also said cultural liaison officers are working with community members to address concerns and maintain communication with local groups.
The Los Angeles Police Department responded to the report Wednesday and said it was also monitoring developments.
“We want to reassure every Angeleno that we continue to coordinate with all of our federal, state, and local partners for intelligence and information sharing during the ongoing Middle East conflict,” the LAPD told City News Service. “We share this information in real-time, assess every credible lead, and adjust our posture as needed to ensure the safety of our city. At this time, there are no known or specific threats to Los Angeles. The LAPD remains prepared and committed to maintaining public safety from all potential threats.”