As tensions escalate between the United States, Israel, and Iran, U.S. law enforcement agencies are quietly preparing for potential security threats at home. According to a report by Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) cited by ABC News, police departments across California were alerted in late February about a possible surprise drone attack allegedly linked to Iran.
The intelligence warning came shortly after the United States and Israel launched military strikes against Iran on February 28, escalating already volatile geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. While authorities stress the warning was precautionary, it highlights growing concerns about unconventional retaliation tactics.
FBI Memo Warns of Possible Offshore Drone Launch
The FBI alert reportedly stated that intelligence suggested Iran had aspirations to launch a surprise drone attack from an unidentified vessel positioned off the U.S. coastline, potentially targeting locations in California.
According to the memo:
“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.”
However, the warning also made clear that critical details remain unknown, including the potential timing, method, or intended targets.
“We have no additional information on the timing, method, target, or perpetrators of this alleged attack,” the alert added.
Neither the FBI nor the White House publicly commented on the intelligence report.
Security Experts Warn Threat Cannot Be Dismissed
Security analysts say the warning reflects growing concern about the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in asymmetric warfare.
John Cohen, an intelligence expert and former head of intelligence at the Department of Homeland Security, said such a scenario is not impossible.
Cohen noted that Iran has established networks and relationships across Latin America, including in Mexico and parts of South America.
“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,” Cohen said.
He added that the FBI’s decision to alert local authorities was a responsible preventive measure designed to ensure law enforcement agencies are prepared for emerging threats.
“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. Information like this is critically important for law enforcement.”
California Authorities Call Alert ‘Cautionary’
Despite the alarming nature of the intelligence report, California law enforcement officials have emphasized that the alert does not indicate an imminent threat.
According to reporting by the Los Angeles Times, local authorities view the memo primarily as a precautionary measure rather than evidence of a concrete attack plan.
Sources familiar with the document stated that the warning was based on intelligence received by the United States Coast Guard, but that the information has not been deemed credible at this time.
Officials stressed that while the intelligence is being taken seriously, there is no confirmation that Iran is actively planning or capable of launching such an attack.
One source told the newspaper that the alert was issued simply to ensure law enforcement agencies remain vigilant.
“The warning was cautionary in nature and there was no indication Iran was planning an attack or if it could successfully launch one.”
Rising Global Tensions Fuel Security Concerns
The warning comes amid intensifying conflict in the Middle East, with growing hostilities between Iran, Israel, and U.S. forces in the region. Military strikes, drone attacks, and threats against energy infrastructure have heightened fears that the conflict could spill beyond the region.
Recent developments have included Iranian warnings against major U.S. technology firms, escalating attacks on shipping in strategic waterways, and increasing military operations across the Middle East.
Security experts say these developments make homeland security threats more plausible, particularly through unconventional tactics such as drones or cyber operations.
Preventive Measures Underway
While officials maintain there is no confirmed attack plot, the FBI alert has reportedly been incorporated into security planning by local and state law enforcement agencies in California.
Authorities say sharing such intelligence — even when unconfirmed — helps agencies prepare contingency responses and strengthen surveillance of potential maritime threats near the U.S. coastline.
For now, officials stress that the alert should not cause public alarm. Instead, it reflects heightened vigilance during a period of escalating geopolitical tensions.
As the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran continues to evolve, security agencies remain on alert for any signs that overseas conflicts could translate into domestic threats.