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California on Alert After FBI Warns of Possible Iranian Drone Attack From Sea
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US federal authorities have warned law enforcement agencies in California about the possibility that Iran could attempt a drone attack targeting the US West Coast, according to a report by ABC News citing an internal FBI intelligence bulletin released in late February 2026 on March 12.
The warning was circulated among security officials as part of preparations for potential retaliation scenarios if the United States were to conduct military strikes against Iranian territory.
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California Governor Gavin Newsom said his administration is “aware of information” related to the warning after reports emerged that federal authorities had alerted local law enforcement to the potential threat.
According to intelligence assessments cited in the bulletin, Iranian planners have discussed the possibility of launching a surprise drone strike from an unidentified vessel operating off the US coastline.
California Governor Gavin Newsom says his administration is "aware of information" after FBI warned police Iran could retaliate with drone attacks on the West Coast.pic.twitter.com/KeGgRts3jF
— NewsWire (@NewsWire_US) March 11, 2026
The potential targets are believed to include locations in California, though officials say there is currently no confirmed timeline, target list, or specific operational plan.
Security officials say the scenario is being treated as a contingency threat rather than an imminent attack, but authorities are continuing to monitor developments closely.
At the same time, US intelligence agencies are increasingly concerned about the growing use of drones by Mexican drug cartels operating along the southern border.
Officials have reported cases in which criminal organizations have experimented with drones capable of carrying explosive payloads that could potentially be used against US military personnel or law enforcement operating near the border.
John Cohen, a former intelligence official at the Department of Homeland Security, noted that Iran maintains an extensive network of contacts and partners across Latin America.
According to Cohen, the combination of regional connections, access to technology, and cooperation with local groups could make a maritime drone attack scenario more plausible.
Authorities say they continue to evaluate intelligence reports as part of broader efforts to strengthen homeland security defenses against emerging drone threats.
Earlier, reports emerged that Russia provided Iran with drone warfare tactics developed during the war against Ukraine, helping Iranian forces improve their ability to penetrate air defense systems in the Middle East.
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