Iran allegedly planned retaliatory drone strike on California: Report
WASHINGTON, DC: The FBI issued a warning to law enforcement agencies in California about a potential retaliatory drone attack linked to Iran.
According to an intelligence bulletin reviewed by ABC News on Wednesday, March 11, federal authorities received information indicating that, as of early February 2026, Iran had expressed interest in carrying out a surprise strike using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
The alert stated that such drones could potentially be launched from an unidentified vessel positioned off the US coast.
While California was referenced as the possible target region, the FBI noted that it currently had “no additional information on the timing, method, target, or perpetrators” connected to the alleged plan.
Intelligence warns Iran may have gear set for strikes
The warning surfaced as the Trump administration continues military operations against Iran under 'Operation Epic Fury'. In response to those actions, Iran has already launched drone strikes against targets in parts of the Middle East.
US intelligence officials previously raised concerns that Iranian equipment or capabilities could be positioned in advance on land or at sea in the event of US or Israeli military action.
ABC News contributor John Cohen, a former intelligence official at the Department of Homeland Security, said Iran possessed both the relationships and the drone technology that could enable such operations.
US monitors drones used by Mexican criminal groups
US officials are also monitoring a separate concern involving drone use by illegal Mexican groups.
A September 2025 intelligence bulletin reviewed by ABC News referenced unconfirmed reports that leaders of illegal organizations had discussed using drones carrying explosives to target US law enforcement or military personnel near the southern border.
Authorities described such a scenario as unprecedented but possible as syndicate access to drone technology continues to expand.
Cohen noted that Iran maintains networks and contacts in parts of Mexico and South America, which analysts claim could complicate the regional security picture.
US probes possible Iran sleeper cell activations abroad
Another federal alert reviewed by ABC News indicated that investigators were examining whether Iran might attempt to activate sleeper cells outside the country.
Authorities recently intercepted an encrypted message believed to have originated from Iranian sources that may have been intended as an operational signal to external assets.
The development reportedly follows the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The FBI’s Los Angeles field office and the White House declined to comment on the details of the bulletin.
Officials have advised state and local law enforcement to remain alert as authorities continue assessing potential threats.
