Gov. Newsom Responds To Alert That California May Be Attacked By Iranian Drones Coming From Offshore Vessel

California's governor has responded to an FBI alert warning that Iran may launch a drone attack on the state from an offshore vessel in retaliation for US strikes. Gavin Newsom said officials are monitoring the situation closely but see no imminent threat as of 12 March 2026.

The alert comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, where American and Israeli forces have been targeting Iranian sites since late February, including oil facilities and military assets.

The FBI's Warning

The FBI distributed an alert to California law enforcement agencies at the end of February, stating that Iran 'allegedly aspired to conduct a surprise attack using unmanned aerial vehicles from an unidentified vessel off the coast of the United States Homeland, specifically against unspecified targets in California'. This was in the event of US strikes against Iran, which began on 28 February.

Officials noted there was no additional information on timing, method, or targets. The threat involves Iranian threat using drone attack technology, a tactic Tehran has employed in the region, such as in attacks on commercial shipping around the Strait of Hormuz. Experts downplay the immediate risk, but the warning has prompted reviews of California security protocols.

The Joint Terrorism Task Force is involved in disseminating such intelligence, ensuring a coordinated response to potential Iranian threats. The alert was issued before the strikes, which have disrupted global oil prices.

Governor Newsom's Response to Iran Drone Attack Threat

Governor Newsom, during a press conference on 11 March, confirmed he was aware of the FBI alert and had activated the State's Operations Centre when the war started. 'Drone issues have always been top of mind,' he said, adding that work groups have been assembled to address such concerns.

The California Governor's Office of Emergency Services is coordinating with federal, state, and local partners to share intelligence. In a post on X, Newsom stated he is in constant coordination with security officials to monitor potential threats tied to the Middle East conflict, emphasising preparedness despite no imminent dangers.

This approach includes transmitting information in real time to local agencies. Newsom has not spoken directly to President Trump but maintains usual channels with federal authorities. The state has elevated its security posture since the conflict began, focusing on unmanned aerial vehicles as a key area.

Local Authorities' Reactions

Law enforcement in major cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Oakland have acknowledged the alert but stressed no specific or credible threats exist. San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie said the city is in constant communication with partners and has been assured of no imminent threat. Similar statements came from other departments, with increased monitoring but no changes to public safety measures.

The alert has hardly been a surprise given the broader Iranian retaliation patterns, including attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and cyber offensives. Oakland police mentioned maintaining close contact with law enforcement at all levels to ensure community safety. The ongoing war has already cost the US £8.5 billion ($11.3 billion) in its first week, according to estimates, adding economic pressure alongside security concerns.

As strikes continue, California remains vigilant against possible Iran drone attack threats, with officials urging residents to report suspicious activity while assuring that coordination efforts are robust. Implications for military communities in the state, home to numerous bases, are being considered, though no heightened alerts have been issued publicly as of 12 March 2026.