FBI: Iran could attack California with drones from the sea

(Patria) - The US FBI has warned California police departments in recent days that Iran could retaliate against US military strikes with drone attacks from vessels off the West Coast.

The warning, based on intelligence gathered since early February, was sent to local authorities late last month, writes ABC News.

"According to information we recently received, Iran has allegedly intended to carry out a surprise drone attack from an unidentified vessel off the US coast since early February 2026.

The attack would be aimed at unspecified targets in California and would be carried out in the event of US strikes on Iran. We have no additional information on the timing, method, target, or perpetrators of this alleged attack," the bulletin, which ABC News had access to, states.

The warning was issued in the context of the Trump administration's military actions against the Islamic Republic, to which Iran has already responded with drone attacks on targets across the Middle East.

The FBI's local office in Los Angeles declined to comment, while the White House did not respond to inquiries.

US intelligence officials have also expressed concern in recent months about the increasing use of drones by Mexican drug cartels.

There are fears that this technology could be used for attacks on US forces and personnel near the border with Mexico.

"An unconfirmed report indicates that unidentified Mexican cartel leaders have authorized explosive drone attacks on US security forces and military personnel along the US-Mexico border," the September 2025 bulletin reads.

The document adds that "such an attack on US personnel or interests within the United States would be unprecedented, but it represents a plausible scenario, although cartels usually avoid actions that would attract unwanted attention or response from US authorities."

John Cohen, an ABC News contributor and former head of intelligence at the Department of Homeland Security, said he is concerned about the possibility of drone warfare from the Pacific and from Mexico.

- We know that Iran has a significant presence in Mexico and South America. They have connections, they have drones, and now they have a motive to carry out attacks.

The FBI acted wisely by issuing this warning so that federal and local authorities can better prepare and respond to such threats. This kind of information is crucial for security forces - Cohen said.

Although the FBI warning did not specify how the vessels with drones could approach US land, intelligence officials have long feared the possibility that attack equipment has been pre-positioned - either on land or on ships at sea - in case Israel or the US attacks Iran.