Washington — Amid the escalating conflict between the United States, Israel and Iran, the FBI has issued a warning to law enforcement agencies about the possibility of surprise drone strikes in California as part of retaliation for US military attacks on Iran. The security bulletin, which was publicly revealed on March 11, was initially circulated by the Los Angeles Joint Regional Intelligence Center last month, raising concerns over the possibility of Iranian-backed attacks on US soil.
The declassified document highlights that, as early as February, Iran reportedly considered launching unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) from a seaplane to target locations in California if the US moves forward with strikes against Iran. Although the bulletin did not specify further details about the possible timing, targets or perpetrators, it made it clear that officials were anticipating possible actions by Tehran in the face of an escalation of the conflict.
Despite the warnings, President Donald Trump downplayed the possibility of Iran-backed attacks reaching the US mainland. “No, I’m not [worried]Trump said when asked about concerns of retaliatory action targeting American soil during a press conference at the White House.
California Governor Gavin Newsom also addressed the situation, saying he had no knowledge of any “imminent threat” to the state. In a statement posted on social media, Newsom reassured the public that California’s security has been increased in response to the rising tensions. “We are in constant coordination with security and intelligence officials to monitor potential threats,” he wrote, adding that there is no immediate threat to California but that the state is prepared for any emergency.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass echoed the sentiment, noting that the city’s law enforcement was actively coordinating with state and federal agencies to ensure public safety. “At this time, there is no specific or credible threat to Los Angeles,” she confirmed.
As conflict between the US and Iran continues to escalate, particularly with Iranian-backed groups involved in regional clashes in Lebanon, experts have indicated that although Iranian retaliation is possible, a large-scale physical attack targeting the US is unlikely. The US Department of Homeland Security’s recent threat assessment showed that although Iran and its proxies could attempt targeted attacks, a widespread attack on US soil is unlikely.
The ongoing conflict has already caused disruption to global oil shipping routes, sending fuel prices soaring, while geopolitical tensions roil international markets. As the US and Israel continue their military operations in the Middle East, the focus is on monitoring any emerging threats to national security, with officials ready to respond if the situation changes.