The White House has moved to reassure the public after reports emerged that the Federal Bureau of Investigation circulated a warning about potential Iranian retaliation inside the United States, clarifying that the alert was based on a single unverified tip and did not indicate a credible threat.

According to officials familiar with the matter, the FBI shared a bulletin with state and local law-enforcement agencies warning that Iran might consider launching a retaliatory drone attack from a vessel off the United States West Coast if American military operations against Iranian targets were to escalate.

The alert said the potential strike could involve unmanned aerial vehicles and might target unspecified locations in California, but it included no information about timing, specific targets, or perpetrators.

White House representatives emphasized that the information was preliminary and lacked verification.

The administration stressed that internal law-enforcement bulletins are often circulated to ensure authorities remain alert to possible scenarios, even when intelligence is incomplete or speculative.

Officials said the president and national security team remain focused on safeguarding the homeland while maintaining a strong posture abroad.

The administration has underscored its confidence in federal and local law-enforcement agencies, which routinely review emerging intelligence and share alerts with partner agencies to ensure preparedness.

California authorities also sought to calm public concern after the warning became public.

State officials said there was no evidence of an imminent threat and confirmed that security agencies were monitoring the situation while continuing routine precautions.

Local law-enforcement departments reported no specific intelligence indicating that any attack was being actively planned.

Despite the absence of a credible threat, some high-profile events and locations increased security measures as a precaution.

Authorities explained that such steps are standard practice whenever alerts circulate, particularly during periods of heightened geopolitical tension.

The alert emerged amid broader tensions between the United States and Iran following military confrontations in the Middle East.

Security agencies have warned that conflicts involving Tehran can create a heightened threat environment, including potential cyber operations, influence campaigns, or retaliation targeting United States interests.

Officials reiterated that the administration remains vigilant but emphasized that Americans should not interpret the FBI notice as evidence of an imminent attack.

Law-enforcement agencies continue to coordinate closely across federal, state, and local levels to monitor potential risks and respond rapidly if credible intelligence emerges.