The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) warned California law enforcement that Iran may retaliate for US strikes by launching drones against targets on the US West Coast, American media report.

The warning came as the Trump administration launched strikes against the Islamic Republic of Iran. Iran responded with drone attacks on targets across the Middle East.

According to a bulletin circulated in late February: "We received information indicating that in early February 2026, Iran allegedly intended to conduct a surprise unmanned aerial vehicle attack from an unknown vessel near the US coastline, specifically targeting unspecified locations in California, should the United States carry out attacks on Iran."

An FBI Los Angeles spokesperson declined to comment. The White House also did not respond to requests for comment. US intelligence services are expressing growing concern about the increased use of drone technology by Mexican cartels and the possibility this equipment could be used against US forces and personnel.