Organizers of the 98th Academy Awards have increased security measures following an FBI alert about a potential Iranian drone attack on California. The warning comes amid heightened tensions from U.S. military actions against Iran. Officials emphasize that preparations are robust, with no specific threats identified for the event.
The 98th Academy Awards, set for Sunday, March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre in Ovation Hollywood, will proceed with enhanced security after the FBI issued a warning to California law enforcement. The alert, first reported by ABC News, states that as of early February 2026, Iran allegedly aspired to conduct a surprise attack using unmanned aerial vehicles from an unidentified vessel off the U.S. coast, targeting unspecified sites in California in retaliation for American strikes against Iran. The bulletin notes no further details on timing, method, target, or perpetrators.
Red carpet preparations began on Wednesday in Hollywood, with host Conan O’Brien and media on site. Executive producer Raj Kapoor addressed safety concerns during a press conference, stating, “I feel like on this show, we have one of the best teams in the business in all aspects, and that comes down to our security team. So, of course, every year we monitor what’s going on in the world. We have the support of the FBI and the LAPD, and it’s a close collaboration.” He added, “We want everybody who is coming to this show... to feel safe, protected, and welcome.”
Sources indicate security has been intensified but remains discreet, described as “cranked up to 11” with measures including a multi-street perimeter coordinated by the LAPD, FBI, and other agencies. A law enforcement official remarked, “Security is tight and ready for anything,” while noting challenges in fully securing the airspace. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department confirmed an “elevated level of readiness and increased vigilance,” with added patrols around prominent locations.
Governor Gavin Newsom stated he is in constant coordination with security officials and aware of no imminent threats, though preparedness remains high. A spokesperson for Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass echoed that there is no specific or credible threat to the city. The LAPD affirmed ongoing monitoring of global events, with real-time intelligence sharing and no known threats to Los Angeles. The FBI described its involvement as routine for high-profile events like the Oscars.
The ceremony will air live on ABC at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT, streaming on Hulu, reaching over 200 territories worldwide. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences declined comment on the alert.
