FBI warns California of Iran’s ‘aspiration’ to strike California with drones, Gavin Newsom responds
Iran’s desire to launch a surprise drone attack on the United States was revealed as the FBI immediately alerted local law enforcement to the threat.
The shocking intelligence was reportedly obtained by officials in the hours before US President Donald Trump ordered the launch of Operation Epic Fury in late February; This may have played a role in Trump’s initial decision to attack.
Before approving the US-Israeli military operation against Iran, Mr Trump said he “believed” Iran was about to launch an attack on the US; This move by the FBI was the first evidence of his claim.
US news network ABC reported that they were reviewing a report sent from the FBI.
Host Kyra Phillips of ABC News Live said the report included the following allegations: “We have recently learned that, beginning in early February 2026, if the United States launches an attack on Iran, Iran plans to launch a surprise attack on unspecified targets, primarily in California, using unmanned aerial vehicles from an unidentified ship off the coast of the U.S. Homeland.”
The information was obtained through an alert distributed by the FBI in late February, the source said.
“We have no additional information regarding the timing, method, target, or perpetrators of this alleged attack.”
The FBI refused to comment on the matter despite numerous requests from the media.
The White House has not yet commented on the alleged Iran plot.
California Governor Gavin Newsom confirmed his administration had been warned.
At a news conference, Mr. Newsom said: “We were aware of this information.
“Drone issues have always been top of mind and we have created working groups around these concerns.
“That’s all I have to share for now.”
Despite the president’s actions against Iran, which is allegedly planning to strike California, according to US intelligence, Mr Newsom has criticized Mr Trump.
“I haven’t talked to the president directly about this (war and oil prices), and I wish the president had talked to the American people about what this is all about, what the end game is?” Newsom said.
“When it comes to the Strait of Hormuz, we see no real results in sight.”
He added of X: “I am in constant coordination with security and intelligence officials, including @Cal_OES, to monitor potential threats to California, including those linked to conflict in the Middle East.”
“While we are not aware of any imminent threats at this time, we continue to be prepared for any emergency in our state.”
