ABC News reported Wednesday that the FBI has alerted California law enforcement agencies that Iran may seek to retaliate for U.S. strikes by targeting the West Coast, including California, with a drone.
“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,” an FBI memo reads. “We have no additional information on the timing, method, target, or perpetrators of this alleged attack.”
One law enforcement official told CNN that the threat was deemed to be “aspirational” in nature. Governor Gavin Newsom backed this claim Wednesday, saying there is no “imminent threat” to the state.
Newsom added that “drone issues have been top of mind and we’ve assembled some work groups specifically around those concerns.”
“While we can’t discuss sensitive details, Californians should know that this kind of coordination happens every day to keep people safe,” a spokesperson for the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services said in a followup statement. “California is prepared to protect its communities, and we’ll continue working closely with our federal partners.”
Several local leaders and law enforcement agencies have also responded to the shock report.
San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie said his office has been “in constant communication with our state and federal partners, and they have assured us there are no imminent threats to us here in San Francisco.”
“The City is aware of reporting indicating Iran allegedly explored using drones for potential attacks in California,” said San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria. “There are no known threats to San Diego. SDPD is coordinating closely with regional, state, and federal partners, and we are prepared to respond to any emergency.”
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department posted the following on social media:
