Security Heightened for 2026 Oscars After FBI Iran Drone Attack Alert

Increased collaboration between the Academy, FBI, and LAPD to ensure safety of attendees and fans.

Published on Mar. 12, 2026

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The 98th Academy Awards, set to take place this Sunday, are proceeding with heightened security measures following an FBI alert regarding a potential retaliatory drone attack by Iran. While producers emphasize that security is always robust, the alert has prompted a collaborative effort between the Academy, the FBI, and the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) to address the emerging threat.

Why it matters

The potential threat stems from escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran, following coordinated military strikes by the Trump administration and Israel against Iranian military infrastructure and nuclear facilities. This has raised concerns about potential retaliatory actions by Iran on American soil, highlighting the need for sophisticated security measures at large-scale public events.

The details

The FBI reportedly warned California law enforcement in late February about a possible 'surprise attack' using unmanned aerial vehicles. According to the alert, Iran allegedly aspired to target unspecified locations in California should the U.S. conduct further strikes against Iranian interests. The LAPD is deploying uniformed officers, surveillance cameras, and drones in the Hollywood area, with approximately 1,000 private security personnel also present at and around the venue. Specialized units, including SWAT and bomb squads with canine units, are on standby.

  • The FBI alert was issued in late February 2026.
  • The 98th Academy Awards are scheduled for this Sunday.

The players

Gavin Newsom

The Governor of California, who is closely monitoring the situation and in constant coordination with security and intelligence officials.

Katy Mullan

The executive producer of the Oscars telecast, who assured the public that the priority is ensuring the safety and well-being of all attendees, guests, and fans.

Raj Kapoor

The executive producer of the Oscars telecast, who stated that they have the support of the FBI and the LAPD, and it's a close collaboration.

Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD)

The law enforcement agency deploying uniformed officers, surveillance cameras, drones, and specialized units to secure the Oscars event.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

The federal law enforcement agency that issued the alert about a potential retaliatory drone attack by Iran and is collaborating with the Academy and LAPD on security measures.

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What they’re saying

“We have the support of the FBI and the LAPD, and it's a close collaboration.”

— Raj Kapoor, Oscars Telecast Executive Producer (newsy-today.com)

“We have the support of the FBI and the LAPD, and it's a close collaboration.”

— Katy Mullan, Oscars Telecast Executive Producer (newsy-today.com)

“We have the support of the FBI and the LAPD, and it's a close collaboration.”

— Gavin Newsom, Governor of California (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

The LAPD and FBI will continue to monitor the situation and maintain heightened security measures throughout the Oscars event to ensure the safety of all attendees and guests.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the growing need for sophisticated security measures at large-scale public events, as event organizers and law enforcement must address emerging threats like drone attacks and potential cyber disruptions through collaborative efforts and the deployment of advanced security technologies.