Iran Plots Drone Strike on California: FBI Warns of Retaliation Amid Operation Epic Fury

This article has been updated to reflect the latest reaction law enforcement and intel officials,  per CBS news.

An FBI intelligence bulletin has warned California law enforcement of an alleged Iranian plan to launch a surprise drone attack from an offshore vessel targeting unspecified locations in the state, in retaliation for U.S. airstrikes under Operation Epic Fury.

The alert, issued late February 2026 based on early-February intelligence, states: “Iran allegedly aspired to conduct a surprise attack using unmanned aerial vehicles… specifically against unspecified targets in California, in the event that the US conducted strikes against Iran.” No further details on timing, method, or perpetrators were provided.

This alert emerges amid the 11th day of Operation Epic Fury, the Trump administration’s intense airstrikes on Iranian targets. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has described the operations as the “most intense” yet, with Pentagon footage showing relentless attacks and reports of over 140 U.S. service members injured. Iran has countered with missile and drone barrages in the Middle East, but the FBI warning brings the potential threat to American soil—specifically the West Coast.

California—home to major ports, military bases, and infrastructure—remains vulnerable. The California Globe has repeatedly highlighted how Governor Newsom’s policies worsen energy and security risks amid U.S.-Iran tensions. Iran’s history of U.S. plots—assassinations, espionage, and potential sleeper cells—combined with accessible drone technology, heightens coastal concerns.

Former DHS intelligence official John Cohen told ABC News: “We know Iran has an extensive presence in Mexico and South America, they have relationships, they have the drones and now they have the incentive to conduct attacks. The FBI is smart for putting this warning out so that state and locals can be better able to prepare and respond to these types of threats.”

NEW: I reached out to California Gov. Newsom’s office to ask about ABC reporting that police in California were warned by the FBI that Iran may seek to attack the state with drones launched from a boat offshore.

Newsom’s office told me the state has elevated its security…

— Bill Melugin (@BillMelugin_) March 11, 2026

In a new development reported by Fox News’ Bill Melugin, California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office responded to inquiries about the FBI warning, stating the state has “elevated its security posture since the start of the war.” The bulletin is one of several security updates from federal partners, disseminated to local law enforcement. Spokesperson Diana Crofts-Pelayo told Fox News: “The Governor’s Office of Emergency Services is actively working with state, local and federal security officials to protect our communities.”

Update: 4:57 PM: 

🚨Multiple US and state law enforcement and intel officials told @CBSNews there is no credible intelligence underpinning the bulletin distributed on the unverified possibility that Iran could retaliate for American attacks by launching drones at the West Coast. "This is not… https://t.co/gcdUBdgDX6

— Jennifer Jacobs (@JenniferJJacobs) March 11, 2026