The Federal Bureau of Investigation warned law enforcement agencies in California that Iran may seek to retaliate for recent United States military strikes by launching drone attacks against the West Coast, according to a report by a television network. An alert circulated in early February 2026 said Iran allegedly aimed to carry out a surprise attack using unmanned aerial vehicles launched from an unidentified vessel off the United States coastline.

The warning stated that potential targets would be located in California if the United States proceeded with military action, which it later did under Operation Epic Fury. Officials noted they had no specific details regarding timing, methods, targets, or individuals involved.

Since the start of the conflict, United States and Israeli operations have significantly reduced Iran’s missile and drone capabilities through sustained airstrikes. The White House said ballistic missile attacks have dropped by more than 90 percent and drone attacks by about 85 percent, and that a major Iranian drone carrier ship was destroyed during the fighting.