The Federal Bureau of Investigation has warned officials in California that Iran may be planning drone attacks from the Pacific Ocean near the U.S. coastline.
According to reports, the Federal Bureau of Investigation recently alerted California authorities that Iran could attempt to launch surprise drone strikes from a vessel in the Pacific Ocean near the U.S. coastline.
The warning was reportedly delivered to California officials in recent days, but details of the alert became public on March 11, 2026, according to ABC News.
Possible drone launch from unidentified vessel
The message sent to California officials reportedly stated that Iran might plan to carry out attacks using drones launched from an unidentified ship positioned in the Pacific Ocean, potentially targeting areas within California.
The warning suggested that such an operation could occur if the United States launches further military strikes against Iran.
However, U.S. authorities said they do not yet have detailed intelligence about the plan, including when the attacks might happen, how they would be carried out, or which specific locations could be targeted.
California monitoring potential threat
Governor Gavin Newsom said the state is working closely with security and intelligence agencies to monitor the situation and prepare for any potential threats.
In a post on X, Newsom said authorities remain vigilant.
“While there are currently no credible threats, we are prepared for any risks that may arise in our state,” he wrote.
However, some local officials in California questioned the credibility of the warning during interviews with CBS News, suggesting that the intelligence behind the alert may not be fully verified.
Rising tensions following attacks on Iran
The warning comes amid escalating tensions following major military strikes carried out on February 28, 2026, by the United States and Israel against Iran.
Those attacks reportedly killed several senior Iranian officials, including the country’s former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
In response, Iran launched retaliatory strikes against U.S. military bases across the Middle East, further escalating the conflict between the two sides.