California Governor Downplays Threat of Possible Iran Drone Attack

Newsom says no imminent danger despite FBI warning of potential West Coast strike

Mar. 12, 2026 at 7:00pm

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California Governor Gavin Newsom has downplayed the threat of a potential drone attack by Iran on the state, despite a recent FBI warning that Iran could try to strike unspecified targets in California. Newsom said the state has been aware of the information and is prepared, but there is no imminent danger.

Why it matters

The FBI alert has raised concerns about national security and the potential for escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran. However, Newsom's response aims to reassure the public and avoid unnecessary panic.

The details

According to the FBI alert, Iran 'allegedly aspired to conduct a surprise attack using unmanned aerial vehicles from an unidentified vessel off the coast of the United State Homeland, specifically against unspecified targets in California, in the event that the US conducted strikes against Iran.' The FBI said they have no additional information on the timing, method, target, or perpetrators of this alleged attack. Both the Los Angeles and San Francisco police departments said they are monitoring the situation and working closely with state and federal authorities.

  • The FBI recently issued the warning about a potential Iran drone attack.

The players

Gavin Newsom

The Governor of California who has downplayed the threat of a potential Iran drone attack on the state.

FBI

The federal law enforcement agency that issued the warning about a possible Iran drone attack on unspecified targets in California.

Los Angeles Police Department

The police department in Los Angeles that said it is monitoring the situation and working with authorities.

San Francisco Police Department

The police department in San Francisco that said it is monitoring the situation and working with authorities.

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What they’re saying

“We've been aware of that information. … It's all about a posture of preparedness for worst-case scenarios.”

— Gavin Newsom, Governor of California

The takeaway

While the FBI warning raises concerns about national security, the California governor's response aims to reassure the public and avoid unnecessary panic, emphasizing that the state is prepared for potential threats but that there is no imminent danger.