- FBI warned California police about a possible Iranian drone attack from offshore vessels
- Intelligence suggests Iran could retaliate after U.S. strikes by targeting the West Coast
- Officials are also monitoring drone threats linked to criminal groups near the U.S.-Mexico border
U.S. law enforcement agencies have been alerted to a potential security threat involving Iranian drone activity near the American West Coast. According to an FBI alert reviewed by ABC News, authorities warned police departments in California about intelligence suggesting Iran could launch drone attacks from a vessel positioned offshore.
The warning came shortly after the United States began military strikes against Iran as part of the escalating conflict in the Middle East.
FBI Alert Warns of Possible Offshore Drone Launch
The FBI bulletin indicated that Iran may have considered launching a surprise drone attack against targets in California. The alert stated that intelligence suggested the drones could be launched from an unidentified vessel operating off the U.S. coastline.
According to the warning, the potential attack would involve unmanned aerial vehicles deployed from the ship toward unspecified locations in California.
Officials noted that there was no confirmed information about the exact timing, targets, or groups that might carry out the attack.
Retaliation Concerns After U.S. Strikes
The warning was issued around the same time the Trump administration initiated military operations against Iran. Since then, Iran has reportedly carried out drone attacks across parts of the Middle East in retaliation.
Security agencies are now evaluating the possibility that Iranian forces or affiliated groups could attempt attacks beyond the region.
The FBI’s Los Angeles office declined to comment publicly on the alert, while the White House had not immediately responded to requests for clarification.
Growing Concerns About Drone Warfare
U.S. intelligence officials have also been increasingly concerned about the growing use of drone technology by non-state actors.
Authorities previously warned about the possibility that Mexican drug cartels could deploy drones carrying explosives against U.S. personnel along the southern border.
An intelligence bulletin from September 2025 suggested that cartel leaders may have discussed using drone attacks against American law enforcement or military forces.
Experts Warn of Expanding Security Risks
Security experts say drone warfare has become an increasingly accessible tool for both governments and criminal organizations.
John Cohen, a former head of intelligence at the Department of Homeland Security, said Iran’s global networks and access to drone technology raise concerns about potential attacks outside the Middle East.
He noted that Iran maintains relationships and operational presence in parts of Latin America, including Mexico and South America.
Preparing for Emerging Threats
Authorities say warnings like the recent FBI alert are designed to help state and local law enforcement agencies prepare for emerging security threats.
Officials have long worried that weapons or equipment could be pre-positioned near U.S. territory, either on land or aboard vessels, in case geopolitical conflicts escalate.
While there is no confirmed evidence that such an attack is imminent, the alert highlights growing concerns about how modern drone technology could be used in future conflicts.
