Security boosted for 2026 Oscars after FBI warns of Iran 'surprise attack' plan in California

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Security at the 2026 Academy Awards just got a serious upgrade after FBI officials flagged a possible drone threat tied to rising tensions with Iran.

Organizers of the Oscars say they’re teaming up with federal and local law enforcement to keep everyone at the Dolby Theatre safe.

This comes after the FBI warned California officials about a potential drone attack in response to the conflict with Iran.

FBI warning triggers heightened security at 2026 Oscars

Oscars producers have promised that they “want everybody to feel safe and protected” at the 2026 Academy Awards on Sunday amid reports of an FBI alert about Iran’s plan to attack California with drones.

During a press conference, days before Hollywood’s biggest night at the Dolby Theatre, Oscars telecast executive producers Katy Mullan and Raj Kapoor said the ceremony will have increased security.

“We have the support of the FBI and the LAPD, and it’s a close collaboration,” Kapoor said.

When contacted by The Hollywood Reporter, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said in part in a statement, “In light of current global events, the Department remains at an elevated level of readiness and is maintaining increased vigilance as we continue to protect our residents of Los Angeles County.”

Security was tightened after the FBI warned that Iran might try a “surprise attack” with drones launched from a ship somewhere off the US West Coast.

The alert pointed to possible targets in California if tensions between the US and Iran keep rising. Still, officials said they did not have details about exact targets, timing, or how an attack would happen.

Federal and local agencies align security for Oscars

Security planning for the Oscars involves coordination between multiple agencies, including the FBI, the Los Angeles Police Department, and other local authorities.

California Gov Gavin Newsom shared on X that he is also monitoring any potential threats to the Golden State.

One of the producers of the show also said, “This show has to run like clockwork.”

“But we want everybody who is coming to this show, who is witnessing the show, and even fans of the show when they’re standing outside the barricades; we want everybody to feel safe and protected and welcome, so it’s our job as a producing team to make sure that that translates.”

California officials say they’re staying in close contact with federal agencies, keeping an eye on any possible risks.

Even with all the extra precautions, organizers say the ceremony is still on. The Oscars will go ahead, drawing some of the biggest names in film, and millions will tune in from around the world.

This boost in security really shows how tense things feel globally right now, especially with authorities watching for threats tied to the conflict with Iran.